Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland responds to the NHS Operational Strategy 2025

Responding to the NHS Operational Strategy 2025, Jane-Claire Judson, CEO of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: 

“We welcome the publication of the NHS Operational Improvement Plan and the insight it provides to the approach being taken. The NHS and the challenges it faces cannot achieve the improvement set out in the plan without working with key partners. It is deeply disappointing that, once again, the third sector and the critical role it plays in delivering essential services, has been overlooked in a Scottish Government national plan.

“While we welcome investment in NHS improvement, it is unsustainable for charities to continue bridging gaps in service delivery without adequate recognition or support. Charities are essential partners in prevention, care and recovery –  not merely a supplement to public services. There are over 2,000 voluntary organisations with over 12,000 staff operating in health, there are over 11,000 social care charities, with over 50,000 staff. For comparison, NHS Forth valley and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have 8,000 and 39,000 staff respectively. The third sector is a powerhouse that can support the Scottish Government’s plans for health – without it, implementation will be weaker and therefore not deliver the impact the people of Scotland want to see.

“We’re encouraged by the promise of a new genetic testing service to improve stroke survivor secondary prevention and the commitment to roll this out to all health boards within 12 months. Although given the Scottish Government’s commitments to expand access to thrombectomy and rehabilitation are yet to be realised, we are concerned that the current inequality in stroke care will continue to exist.’

“At a time when demand is increasing, we need meaningful collaboration and solutions. The Government must engage with us as equal partners, ensuring that policy and investment decisions reflect the vital role we play. The time for listening and action is now.”