Unacceptable increase in people awaiting social care assessment

7,762 people estimated to be waiting on a social care assessment for a package of care, up almost 25% from September 2024.

The Scottish charity for older people has expressed serious concern over a rise in the number of people waiting to be assessed for social care.  

Figures from Public Health Scotland, published today, show an almost 25% increase in the number of people awaiting a social care assessment in comparison to this time last year.  

Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, Katherine Crawford, said: 

“There are far too many older people experiencing challenges accessing the social care system – the highest number in the last two years. They are facing longer waiting times than ever for social care assessments and for the delivery of care packages that would drastically improve their quality of life.   

“As we hear that the criteria and threshold for qualifying for care is getting tougher, we are increasingly concerned about the number of people who are found to be ineligible after assessment.  

“There are considerable challenges in providing and delivering timely, appropriate, accessible and above all high-quality social care across Scotland.  

“Politicians and government need to grab the bull by the horns and work together to fix social care. There has been no tangible progress made in recent years and, if anything, it feels like things are getting worse for older people in need of social care in Scotland.  

“This needs to get back onto the political agenda before the next election and politicians need to prioritise and agree how to properly fund and deliver social care, through a system with improved clarity around accountability and responsibility. Reform can’t come soon enough. We can’t afford another failed attempt to reform such a vital service.”  

Arranging social care can be a challenge. From knowing where to start, to what type of care and support you need and who pays for it, there are lots of questions to ask. But you're not alone — we're here to help you through the process. Access our suite of free information guides here.