SASW statement on National Care Service Bill delay

BBC News has reported that Stage 1 of the National Care Service Bill is to be extended until June. The legislation was set to reach the end of the first stage this month, however, this will be extended to allow the winner of the SNP leadership race to review the proposal. All three candidates previously stated they want to revisit plans.

“An extension to the stage one deadline will allow both the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Government the necessary time to consider all of the evidence to best inform the development of the Bill.”, a Scottish Government spokesperson said.

SASW is actively involved in engagement around the Bill and will continue to do so as it progresses.  We will work to ensure the voices of social workers and people who need services influence all parts of the Government’s National Care Service programme. Whatever happens regarding the Bill, there are significant issues particularly around social work terms and conditions, social work education and recruitment and retention that need to be addressed now. SASW is committed to seeing proposals for the National Social Work Agency develop to achieve progress for the profession, regardless of the National Care Service Bill.