Hansard

I am wondering whether the Conservatives are really suggesting that we should not proceed with the change that is so urgently needed in the sector. We all know that the case for change has been made unequivocally through the independent review of adult social care, through our on-going co-design discussions with people who have lived experience, and through almost every exchange that I have had with those who work in and those who receive services from the social work and social care sector. The case for change in social care is unassailable, and everyone agrees that it is necessary.

The bill is milestone legislation. It represents the most ambitious reform of public services in Scotland since devolution. The change is necessary to deliver the consistency and quality of care and support across Scotland that people deserve. It is also necessary to reinforce our commitment to Scotland’s people to take long-term action to change our society and make Scotland a fairer place to live in.

We remain committed to delivering a national care service to improve quality, fairness and consistency of provision that meets individuals’ needs. We know that the social care system in Scotland needs to change and that our partners across the public sector, including local government and the national health service, agree. We are working with people with lived experience and people who work in social care to provide what is needed. That is essential for a task of such a magnitude.

We revisited our approach last year to further engage with people who have lived experience, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities and the NHS. We worked really hard in discussion with numerous stakeholders through numerous regional events and meetings over the second half of 2023.