The future planning of elderly care services is “one of the greatest challenges” for society, according to the chairman of a new group set up to investigate reforms in Scotland.

Sir John Arbuthnott heads a panel launched today by Labour as part of the party’s pledge to create a National Care Service if it wins the next Holyrood election.

The service would merge health and social care into a single organisation, taking control away from councils and absorbing relevant functions presently run by the NHS.

The panel, unveiled in Glasgow, will hold “listening exercises” before reporting in April with suggestions about how to improve the experience of people who need care and their families.

Sir John said: “This is one of the greatest challenges facing society in coming years. The rapid increase in the older population is fully recognised.

“The help and support that assures the wellbeing of older people and allows them to participate as fully as possible in their communities is a priority. They have much to offer in wisdom and experience.

“Colleagues on the expert group have long-standing experience in providing care and treatment for this age group. But we will also welcome the views of the voluntary sector, including churches, faith groups as well as of families who provide much of the front line love and care. The views of older people are also central.

“It is time to revisit the way in which the balance of treatment, care and wellbeing is provided to best effect.”

The panel will investigate funding, demographic trends and the role of care providers, among other areas.

Members include Age Scotland chief executive David Manion, professor Brian Williams of the Royal College of Physicians, professor June Andrews of the dementia development centre at Stirling University, Enable Scotland chief executive Peter Shott, retired Glasgow council social work head Hugh Clarke and a GP, Dr Alistair Noble.

Launching the new panel, Labour leader Iain Gray said: “Just as our predecessors rose to the challenge of the last century and created the NHS, we must rise to the challenge of the 21st century and ensure our elderly and disabled citizens receive the social care they need.”

Topics