Social Work Scotland response to Scottish Government Long Term Conditions – Framework consultation
17 July 2025
Introduction
Social Work Scotland is the professional body for social work leaders, working closely with our partners to shape policy and practice, and improve the quality and experience of social services. We welcome the opportunity to provide a response to the Long-Term Conditions Framework Consultation.
Background
More than one-third of people in Scotland live with at least one long-term health condition, often facing challenges that go beyond physical symptoms, affecting their mental wellbeing, financial security, and ability to work. At the same time, 46% of school-aged children have additional support needs. While this includes groups such as looked-after children and young carers, a significant number are living with disabilities or long-term conditions.
To effectively support these individuals, a more integrated, person-centred and child-centred approach is essential, one that considers broader contributing factors such as poverty, the accessibility of cheap fast food, reliance on food banks, societal pressures, and the role of education.
Historically, health policies have focused on individual conditions, leading to important progress in areas like heart disease and chronic pain. However, the increasing prevalence of multi-morbidity highlights the need for a more holistic and coordinated approach.
In response, the Scottish Government has outlined a new vision for health and social care, one that empowers people to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. This vision emphasises prevention, fairness in access, high-quality services, and better overall population health. As part of this transformation, the government has consulted on a cross-cutting policy framework for long-term conditions. The proposed framework aims to meet shared needs across different conditions while continuing to support condition-specific care where necessary. Importantly, it seeks input from both the public and professionals to ensure future policies are inclusive, sustainable, and informed by lived experience.
