COSLA calls for urgent national action to address crisis in social care
Council leaders have issued a serious warning about the worsening crisis in social care and urged for immediate national attention and funding to become a clear priority. The appeal follows a meeting of council leaders last week.
Warning from Councillor Paul Kelly
COSLA’s health and social care spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly, cautioned that the social care system is at breaking point and called for a £750 million investment to stabilize the situation.
“Social care underpins everything we value most within our communities – from dignity in later life, supporting people in their unpaid caring roles, to enabling people to live independently and participate fully in society.”
Kelly emphasized that local government has always prioritized social care, seeking to protect budgets and maintain essential services despite persistent financial strain.
“But local government cannot do this alone. Demand is increasing, costs are rising, and the workforce is under immense strain. Without fair and sustainable funding, we risk the viability of services that people rely on every single day.”
He added that although local governments continue striving to sustain critical care and support, only urgent investment from the Scottish Government will allow them to commission and deliver the care communities need.
“That is why, as part of COSLA’s manifesto, we are calling on the next Scottish Government to invest £750 million into social care services.”
Author’s Summary
The call from COSLA underscores an urgent plea for national funding to rescue Scotland’s overstretched social care system and ensure sustainable support for communities.