Speakers at a national conference have called into question who holds – and who should hold – the power in health and social care in Scotland.

Leaders from across Scotland’s voluntary health sector say there needs to be greater recognition of the sector’s influence in shaping health and care across Scotland.

Speaking at Voluntary Health Scotland’s annual conference in Glasgow, a panel urged organisations to be bold in using their collective power to influence policy and redesign services around people’s needs.

Nick Ward, CEO of Change Mental Health, said it is important voluntary organisations recognise the significant influence they already hold – and that they should use it confidently.

He told the conference:

“A lot of power is about access. And look at this room – this room is full of powerful people.

“These are people who will know their MPs, will have access to chief executives of health and social care partnerships.

“The third sector as a group has huge amount of power. I think there's also something about recognising the power of this room and the power of the sector collectively.

“We're a really important part of our society. And I think it's time that we sort of step into that space."

 

 

Give power to people with lived experience

Mr Ward was speaking as part of a panel session on inclusive cross-sector collaboration, alongside third sector leaders, volunteers and people with lived experience.

Part of the discussion focused on the importance of employing, paying and valuing the input of people with lived experience.

Fellow panel member Neil Gardner, from the Stroke Association, said power should lie with those closest to issues, rather than solely those in formal positions of authority.

Mr Gardner, who is a stroke survivor, told the conference:

“I don't think it's about who has the power. It should be about who should have the power.

“I do believe that the volunteers and those especially with lived experience should have that power – in shaping the journey and in shaping how services are designed.”

The conference, themed Collaboration for Change, also marked the launch of Voluntary Health Scotland’s new five-year strategic plan, which commits to being “bold and tenacious” in driving change and strengthening the voice of the voluntary health sector in national policy.

 

Read more: Health and charity leaders join forces for NHS reform; Scotland’s third sector calls for health partnership; Third sector – not third in line

 

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