The strategic plan, which is published online, sets out the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HHSCP) vision and ambitions to improve the health and wellbeing of adults living in the area over the next three years.

Pam Dudek, NHS Highland’s chief executive, said: “This plan has been developed by listening to those who live in our communities across Highland.

“It is vitally important that we work closely with our communities and partners to shape services both now and in the future. The strategic plan provides a clear framework for the HHSCP to ensure we continue to enable people to live as independently as possible supported by their families, friends and their local communities.

“We know that we need to consider the way we deliver health and social care services to meet the challenges we face. We need to be innovative in how we work together towards sustainable services that are cognisant with the aims outlines in the plan.”

Highland Council’s chief executive, Derek Brown, added: “After an extensive consultation the public asked the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership to enable older and vulnerable people to live more independently and well at home.

“There will need to be a transformation in the delivery of social care to improve outcomes for people living in Highland and the Partnership’s Strategic Plan for Adult Services will help direct and deliver the change required.

“I am very excited about the opportunity to support the necessary changes and meet the aspirations detailed in that plan.”