Responding to Social Work Scotland’s research on The State and Future of Social Work and Social Care Funding in Scotland, COSLA’s Health & Social Care Spokesperson Councillor Paul Kelly said:

“This report serves as a collective call to action for meaningful and sustainable change in social work and social care in Scotland, to deliver the system we aspire to have; one centred around human rights and dignity, where both the people delivering and accessing support feel valued. I offer Local Government’s commitment to work with partners on realising change.

“Scotland’s social work and social care sector faces complex funding, policy and system challenges, and this report makes clear the impacts these can have on people, carers and frontline workers. It is deeply troubling that frontline workers talk about the moral and ethical dilemmas they face as a result of having to balance financial considerations with the care that can be delivered to citizens.

“In collectively considering the reports and working through system challenges, we cannot allow further cuts to be inflicted upon vital social care services at this pivotal time. As it currently stands, the Scottish Budget would represent a further cut to social care funding in Scotland, and risks compounding the very real system pressures which will directly impact people and communities.

“Social work and social care are essential to the fabric of Scottish society. We know that by investing in these services, and by working together to change them for the better, we can make a real difference to people’s lives, to local economies and to our communities.”

Notes to editors

• Social Work Scotland reports
• On 20^th January 2026, COSLA warned the Scottish Budget Delivers Cut to Social Care
• Read COSLA's manifesto
• Read COSLA's budget lobbying document

26th January 2026