Scottish Government has ‘lost control’ over winter health plans

Labour has accused the Scottish Government of “losing control” over winter health plans, after it emerged health boards may have been given just eight days to prepare them.

According to information obtained by the party via a Freedom of Information (FoI) request, the Scottish Government requested the plans from health boards on October 8, but only gave them until October 16 to submit them.

Labour said not only were the deadlines set at short notice, but one board, NHS Lothian, was under the impression the plans did not have to be sent to the Scottish Government at all.

The party added that on November 13 the government outlined its “winter preparedness priorities and principles” in Parliament, but that many health boards only received the report’s final version either on or the day before the publication date.

Each year NHS boards prepare plans specifically aimed at tackling winter pressures as flu cases spike and A&E pressures increase.

Labour health spokeswoman Jackie Baillie said: “It is absolutely clear that hapless SNP ministers have lost control when it comes to producing winter health plans.

“Scottish Labour has consistently called on the Scottish Government to produce credible and robust plans to prepare our NHS for the challenging winter months.

“However, this fresh information now demonstrates the rushed approach that has been adopted by SNP ministers, leaving NHS boards short of time to prepare.

“Patients and staff deserve better from this Government. If John Swinney had any ideas to fix the health service, he would have implemented them a long time ago.

“A Scottish Labour government under Anas Sarwar will do whatever it takes to restore our NHS and give the people of Scotland the opportunity to take a new direction.”

Health Secretary Neil Gray disputed the suggestion boards were only given eight days to produce their winter plans.

“Winter places significant pressure on health and social care services every year, and we continue to work closely with all boards to ensure robust winter and surge preparations are in place,” he said.

“Assertions that boards were given eight days to produce winter plans do not reflect reality.

“The October request was part of the routine assurance check seeking confirmation on plans already in place, developed over preceding weeks and months, as happens every year.

“Our focus remains on supporting staff, improving patient flow, and ensuring people receive safe, timely care throughout the winter period.”