New standards to give people the right to high-quality health and care services have been published for consultation today. The standards will provide a framework for all health, social work and social care provision in Scotland.

They are being extended to all health and care services – from hospitals and care homes to care at home for adults and children’s day-care services.

The standards set out what people can expect when they use health and social care services and will be used by the Care Inspectorate, Healthcare Improvement Scotland and other scrutiny bodies during their inspection processes.

They have been developed by an expert group consisting of organisations representing people using services, unpaid carers, health and social care providers and commissioners of care and support services.

Health Secretary Shona Robison said:

“Since 2002, the National Care Standards have played an important role in ensuring people who receive care and support get the high-quality service they are entitled to.

In reviewing the current standards, we all have a unique opportunity to contribute to how our services are planned, commissioned, delivered and improved. What matters most is that people feel included and respected, and can choose the kind of service which best improves their quality of life whatever their circumstances.

This human-rights based approach to standards of care has been developed following an extensive engagement process with both stakeholders and the public. I hope everybody will take the opportunity to give us their views.”