The Scottish government has announced a £19 billion package, the highest ever budget, to support health and care services in Scotland.
It aims to support ‘immediate pressures’ and a ‘tough winter’, as well as supporting its wider aim to ensure the delivery of health and care services are fit for the future.
As part of the funding an extra £1 billion will be available to improve front line services and help fund the NHS pay deal for 2022/23.
Health Boards across Scotland will receive a 6 percent increase in funding as part of the budget, which is said to include over £9 billion to support staff pay.
For social care and integration £1.7 billion in funding will be provided over the next year, and £2 billion to support primary care services.
Health Secretary, Humza Yousaf, said: “Frontline workers are the foundation of our health and care services and I am extremely grateful for them for getting us through the pandemic and facing-down one of the toughest winters in NHS history.
“This historic settlement took some difficult decisions, but we are steadfast in efforts to address the immediate pressures on health and social care services, and support fair work and pay.
“I want health and care services that are fit for the future – a future where Scotland continues to be the best place for health and care workers and where everyone gets the care that they need, where and when they need it.”
