The challenges we have in 2025 to 2028
The HSCP has been under financial pressure, and this is expected to continue. We have an aging population, and increasing number of people with health conditions and disabilities, including Learning Disabilities and complex health needs. These changes are happening sooner in Shetland than in other parts of Scotland, which puts extra pressure on our services. We also know that we can't expect people to consistently go above and beyond. This is not sustainable in the long term for our staff, teams and our services.
There are more people with conditions like learning disabilities and autism.
The prevalence of Learning Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders is increasing globally, and Shetland also has an increasing population with these conditions, as well as people with more complex health and care needs. This means we are likely to see more demand for health and care services in future. Some people have health and care needs that are becoming more complex.
People are living longer. There are now more older people than before, and fewer young people.
In Shetland we also have an aging population; meaning the number of older people is increasing whilst the number of younger people is decreasing. This may lead to more pressure on our health and care services and a decline in the number of people available locally to join our workforce. Older people often need more health and social care. They may need help from doctors, nurses, and other health and care staff.
There is no easy solution to the challenges of a population with increasing complex needs or an aging population. However, by working together with our staff, the community and our Third sector and voluntary agency partners, we can look to develop effective ways to address these challenges and to ensure people have the right level of support and care to meet their needs.