Adobe Acrobat PDF

Better care every step of the way

More than 40% of care homes in Scotland need to improve the support they offer people with life-limiting illnesses and those who require palliative and end of life care, according to a new report from Scotland’s care watchdog.

This report reflects the findings of 1036 inspections and three investigations carried out by the Care Commission at care homes for older people between April 2007 and March 2008.

The healthcare quality strategy for Scotland: draft strategy document

Draft strategy document that sets out the proposals for a Quality Strategy for NHS Scotland. These proposals are based on knowledge about what works well in Scotland, and builds on the range of excellent progress and work underway already at local, regional and national levels. The strategy has been developed through wide ranging discussions with the people working in NHS Scotland, and with patients and carers.

Drugs and alcohol

Drinking alcohol is very common. For most people, it is an enjoyable part of a party or going out with friends. Most people who drink do not have a drink problem. However, for some children and young people who call ChildLine, alcohol does cause problems. This can be because they are drinking too much. More commonly though, it is because someone they care about – a parent, grandparent, brother, sister, girlfriend, boyfriend or a friend – is drinking too much. For these callers, alcohol is a problem. This is called alcohol abuse.

Living on the edge: enabling older owner occupiers with moderate learning disabilities to live independently

Report focusing on the plight of older people with mild to moderate learning disabilities living independently in their own homes. It notes that many reach crisis points which threaten their independence and argues that a service response model based on crisis support workers is the most effective way of preventing such crises occurring and recurring.