Members of South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board (IJB) were updated on actions that are being progressed, and are in place, to contend with well-publicised pressures of the season.

Soumen Sengupta, Director of Health and Social Care, explained that plans have been prepared meticulously and well in advance adding public support has been – and will continue to be – vital during the period.

“The sustained pressures and demand on the health and social care system have been well-documented, combined with factors such as the continued impact of Covid 19, influenza and the cost of living crisis,” said Mr Sengupta. 
“We completely understand that many of the challenges facing our services are also the cause of significant frustration and anxiety amongst the public. We are grateful for people’s patience and forbearance as we maintain and direct vital capacity to support those most in need. 
“Our communities should be absolutely assured that our committed staff and partners are doing their utmost to keep people safe and to deliver the best care possible in unprecedented circumstances.”
Mr Sengupta continued: “We are already accelerating all those actions that we can within our hospitals and within the community to improve timely discharge, including expanding our award winning Home First programme, as IJB colleagues heard today. 

Mr Sengupta explained that, as part of the winter plans, clear public messaging will continue to be highly visible across the period. The campaigns are supporting people to take a proactive approach to staying healthy - and how to use health and social care services appropriately if support is needed.
“When support is needed, we recognise it’s really important there is clear and reliable information on how to access the right help and support for specific health needs. 
“I would echo national messaging that planning ahead can help ensure that coughs, colds, and minor ailments don’t become a big problem for you and your family over winter. 
“Having some remedies in the house is a good idea and knowing where to get help if someone does become unwell is also important so it’s good to note your GP and pharmacy opening times over the holidays.
Mr Sengupta added: “We also recommend the information available online at www.nhsinform.scot which include symptom-checkers that enable individuals and families to make more informed choices.”

People are being asked to:
 
•         Go to A&E if they have a life threatening condition such as a stroke, heart attack or severe bleeding
•         If it’s not an emergency then they can: contact their general practice during the day, call NHS 24 on 111 day or night, visit your local pharmacy or use the self-help guides on NHS inform for practical advice and information.
 
Mr Sengupta continued: “These messages are really clear, and will be prominent in the coming days and weeks. We know that this is an especially tough winter for many people and are hugely grateful for the continuing support of our local communities. 

“Lesley McDonald, Chair of the IJB, echoed that sentiment – and thanked health and care staff for their ongoing commitment. 
“As the business of today’s meeting attests, our leaders, staff and teams continue to rise to every challenge that arises, which is testament to their resilience, fortitude and commitment to the wellbeing of local people.”

Read today's IJB papers here: https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/slhscp/downloads/file/402/sl_ijb_meeting_papers_13_december_2022