Health and Social Care

We have an ageing population, and that situation is only set to get worse. We will soon have more dependents (people who aren’t working and need to be supported) than we will have income generators (people in work earning money to pay for those that need care, either directly paying for this care or indirectly paying through taxation). If the economy does not grow there will be no money to pay for a health service, nursing homes, nurses, doctors, etc.

• The Health budget has been scrutinised, and the level of expenditure appears to be in line with the Island’s needs.

• Health and Social Care is efficient and works well, but we will make sure the resources we have work effectively, are fit for purpose and provide value for money.

• Emerging technology and treatments need to be constantly reviewed and upgraded in a timely fashion

• High level work on retention of nurses to ensure career path and progression with commensurate pay that looks at other like-for-like professional pay-grades along with competing jurisdictions.

• Increased focus on mental health for all ages, including children and young adults.

• Government must work with and engage the Third Sector in any proposed changes.