Thanks to everyone who joined our event on 9 September to share learning and good practice across both the Scottish Community Link Worker and the Improving the Cancer Journey Networks. We have shared the presentations and key messages in the links below: Key Messages Scottish Government … [Read more...] about Key Messages: SCLWN and Macmillan ICJ Networking Event
VHS Statement: decrease in drug misuse deaths in Scotland
The figures published today showing a 13% fall in deaths caused by drug misuse in Scotland in 2024 are a step in the right direction. However, they are not cause for celebration. Similar figures for 2023 saw a 12% rise in deaths caused by drug misuse. Progress is precarious and we will not know … [Read more...] about VHS Statement: decrease in drug misuse deaths in Scotland
VHS Response: Long Term Conditions Framework Consultation
Yesterday we submitted our response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on a proposed Long Term Conditions Framework which closes on the 20th July. This response was based on extensive engagement with our members. In our response, we were unable to categorically answer whether or not we are … [Read more...] about VHS Response: Long Term Conditions Framework Consultation
VHS Policy Consultation Event – Mental Health Spending
This VHS interactive consultation event will provide information about the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee's pre-budget scrutiny consultation on mental health spending. There will then be an opportunity for attendees to discuss the consultation which will inform the VHS response. This … [Read more...] about VHS Policy Consultation Event – Mental Health Spending
VHS Response: Pathways to Work Consultation
On 30th June, we submitted our response to the UK Government Pathways to Work consultation. Whilst there are some positive elements within the Green Paper, we express our reservations about some of the proposals and provide some recommendations for ensuring that people living with long term health … [Read more...] about VHS Response: Pathways to Work Consultation
VHS Response: Scottish Labour Policy Forum Stage 2 Consultation
On 27th June 2025, we responded to the second stage of the Scottish Labour Party’s Policy Forum. This will inform their manifesto for next year’s Scottish Parliament election. The consultation is framed around seven thematic documents, including two on Mental Health and Preventative Health Care … [Read more...] about VHS Response: Scottish Labour Policy Forum Stage 2 Consultation
Policy Workshops: 2026 VHS Manifesto
In preparation for next year’s Scottish parliament election, VHS is planning to publish a policy manifesto later this year. We’ve already hosted a meeting with a group of key stakeholders to help us identify the key issues and opportunities and some of the policy solutions to address these. Now we … [Read more...] about Policy Workshops: 2026 VHS Manifesto
Policy Consultation Event: Long Term Conditions Framework
A consultation event, hosted by the VHS Policy and Public Affairs Lead, to support VHS in drafting their response to the Scottish Government's consultation on the Long Term Conditions Framework. This event is aimed at VHS members and stakeholders with a particular interest in the Scottish … [Read more...] about Policy Consultation Event: Long Term Conditions Framework