Programme for Government 2026-31: Putting Prevention and Health Creation into Action Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) welcomes the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government 2026–31 and the stronger focus it places on prevention, community-based care, tackling poverty and public service … [Read more...] about VHS Response: Programme for Government
VHS Responses: Pre-Budget Scrutiny
On Friday 14th August, we responded to the pre-budget scrutiny consultations for both the Finance and Public Administration Committee and the Public Service Reform Committee of the Scottish Parliament. These responses were informed by insights and evidence from our membership captured at our … [Read more...] about VHS Responses: Pre-Budget Scrutiny
Programme for Government Proposals
Today we shared four proposals for inclusion in the upcoming Programme for Government with key contacts in the Government. These proposals are based on recommendations detailed in our Manifesto for Health Creation and our (IN)VISIBLE Report exploring the relationship between sex, gender, and … [Read more...] about Programme for Government Proposals
Policy Briefing: Health Inequalities in Scotland
Today we shared a policy briefing with MSPs detailing information about current health inequalities in Scotland, including a summary of the findings from our recent (IN)VISIBLE research into sex, gender, and health inequalities. The briefing further shared a description of the policy priorities from … [Read more...] about Policy Briefing: Health Inequalities in Scotland
VHS Commitment to Anti-Racism
At VHS, we know that racism is a public health issue and a driver of health inequalities amongst racially minoritised communities. As such, we are pleased to share our Anti-Racism Statement. This statement details how we intend to proactively challenge racism and create a culture of allyship for our … [Read more...] about VHS Commitment to Anti-Racism
SCLWN: Leads Peer Support Event – Key Messages
Our latest Leads Peer Support Event focused on presentations from North Ayrshire and Arran CLW programme about the progress of their delivery with a particular focus on their weigh to go and smoking cessation interventions on the island of Arran. The event also heard from Gillian Burton from the … [Read more...] about SCLWN: Leads Peer Support Event – Key Messages
VHS Response: Right to Breaks for Unpaid Carers
Today we submitted our response to the Scottish Government consultation on the implementation of the right to breaks for unpaid carers. The response provides some high-level insights to support the protection of unpaid carer health and wellbeing through the provision of short breaks. Our insights … [Read more...] about VHS Response: Right to Breaks for Unpaid Carers
VHS (IN)VISIBLE Report: Health, Sex and Gender Inequalities in Scotland
Our (IN)VISIBLE Report exploring the impact of sex and gender on health experiences and outcomes in Scotland has been published! This 48-page report pulls together evidence and insight from 50+ VHS members and wider stakeholders, as well as national and academic sources, to identify key themes … [Read more...] about VHS (IN)VISIBLE Report: Health, Sex and Gender Inequalities in Scotland
SCLWN: Knowledge Exchange – Key Messages
We held our latest Knowledge Exchange on 7th May featuring presentations from Neurodivergent Birth Support and Penumbra. Elevate Autism were unable to make it, but have shared their slides which you can link to below. Thanks to our wonderful speakers and to all the CLWs who contributed to some great … [Read more...] about SCLWN: Knowledge Exchange – Key Messages
Movement for Health Creation Open Letter to MSPs
Today Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) sent an open letter, signed by 79 VHS members, to all new and returning MSPs elected last week. The letter calls on MSPs to prioritise health creation and take action to address health inequalities. The letter details some of the key health challenges facing … [Read more...] about Movement for Health Creation Open Letter to MSPs
