Integrating health and social care services is a major programme of reform for Scotland. It will mean better and more joined up care, better anticipatory and preventative care and a greater emphasis on community based care. It will benefit the growing number of people in Scotland who have complex care needs, amongst others. People who use services should get the right care, in the right pace, at the right time.
The Public Bodies (Joint Working) Act 2014 is a key piece of legislation, requiring Health Boards and Local Authorities to integrate their health and social care services, so that best use is made of skills and resources. Making the best use of skills and resources means involving the voluntary sector, service users and carers.
Threading the Needle is a programme established by Evaluation Support Scotland to use third sector evidence to commission outcomes for health and social care.
Useful resources
Threading the Needle website
Joint Improvement Team integration website
Related News and Blogs
VHS (IN)VISIBLE Report: Health, Sex and Gender Inequalities in Scotland
19/05/2026
Our (IN)VISIBLE Report explori …
Movement for Health Creation Open Letter to MSPs
12/05/2026
Today Voluntary Health Scotlan …
Blog: ‘Sticking Plasters’ vs Systemic Change: What are Scotland’s Party Manifestos saying about health creation?
23/04/2026
It is less than three weeks un …
Key Messages: Prevention and Power Joint Hustings
13/04/2026
VHS hosted a joint hustings ev …
VHS Response: Scottish Budget 2026-27 and Spending Review
14/01/2026
There is a lot to be celebrate …
