Improving Public Services and NHS Renewal

Jan 27

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The Scottish Government has outlined a bold and ambitious vision for transforming public services and renewing the NHS, as laid out in the First Minister’s speech at Bute House today.

At the heart of the government’s plan is the principle of prevention—shifting resources towards early intervention to address health and social inequalities before they escalate into crises. This preventative approach is coupled with significant investment in community-based healthcare and the integration of health and social care systems to ensure services meet the needs of Scotland’s most vulnerable.

Today, First Minister John Swinney also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving the core principles of the NHS: free at the point of need, publicly owned, and accessible to all. Key measures include tackling waiting times, recruiting more healthcare professionals, and modernising infrastructure with sustainability at its core.

Beyond the NHS, the government’s vision extends to tackling poverty, reducing inequality, and improving public service delivery through innovation and collaboration. The aim is to create systems that are equitable and accessible for communities across Scotland, including those in rural and remote areas.

"This speech underlines exactly what we need to see in Scotland—a focus on prevention, fairness, and community. Here in Aberdeen South and North Kincardine, we understand the value of investing early to tackle issues before they grow, whether in healthcare, education, or social support.

What stands out is the emphasis on empowering communities and ensuring our public services are sustainable for generations to come. The First Minister’s vision is ambitious, but it’s rooted in what people across Scotland need and deserve. Now it’s time for action to turn these plans into real, lasting change."

-- Audrey Nicoll MSP