Health and social care - surge preparedness: national planning priorities and principles
This revised framework sets out a consistent approach to preparedness, resilience, surge and winter planning across Scotland’s health and social care system, establishing principles, priorities and expectations to support systems in strengthening resilience and maintaining safe, person-centred care.
Conclusion
This Framework provides a consistent national approach to preparedness, resilience, surge and winter planning across Scotland's health and social care system. It establishes a shared set of principles, priorities and expectations while enabling local flexibility to respond to population needs, risks and circumstances. The Framework also supports organisations in meeting wider resilience and emergency preparedness responsibilities, including those arising from the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 and wider Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR) guidance.
Preparedness is not a seasonal activity. It requires continuous attention to prevention, resilience, flow, workforce sustainability and organisational readiness, supported by effective partnership working across health, social care, local government, communities, the third sector, independent providers and unpaid carers.
By planning ahead, acting early and working together, local systems can strengthen resilience, reduce inequalities, improve outcomes and ensure people continue to receive safe, effective and person-centred care during periods of both routine and exceptional pressure.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility and a year-round commitment. Through collective action, strong leadership and continuous improvement, Scotland can build a more resilient, integrated and sustainable health and social care system that delivers the right care, in the right place, at the right time, for everyone.