Action needed to avert a health and social care crisis

We've joined 240 charities from across the country in an open letter to the First Minister warning that immediate action is needed to avert a health and social care crisis across Scotland.

Mary Glasgow, Chief Executive of Children First said: "Children and families are losing services that have literally saved their lives, with funding for some Children First services, slashed by more than half. Families already tell us they have to “fight for support” to get the help their children desperately need.

"Alongside the lifeline services that the charity sector provides, we also play a unique role in championing the voices of the people we support and innovating to make sure their needs are met.

"Children First have brought transformative services to Scotland, such as Bairns Hoose and family group decision making, which have resulted in children getting better support and reductions in overall costs to the public purse. But without immediate investment in the third sector, there is a very real threat of collapse. The consequences for individuals, communities and society will be devastating. We need action now."