The plan sets out ambitious key local priorities for health and social care services to ensure people are supported to live in their own homes and lead independent lives in their communities.

It reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who use health and social care services in North Lanarkshire and outlines how services will be delivered to meet those needs.

Key priorities outlined in the plan include improving access to services, reducing health inequalities, and delivering high-quality, person-centred care. The plan also focuses on promoting early intervention and prevention, empowering individuals and communities, fostering partnership working, and contributing towards national health and wellbeing outcomes.

The plan has been developed through a collaborative process featuring input from people who use health and social care services, partners, the public and partnership staff.

A number of engagement events were held with localities, targeted groups, community board members, elected members, Integration Joint Board members, and the strategic planning group. The draft plan was published online alongside a survey questionnaire which allowed people to give their feedback and help further shape the final plan.

Councillor Ayeshah Khan, chair of the North Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board, said: “Person-centred community health and social care services are essential in providing support to individuals, families, and our wider communities to improve their health, wellbeing, and quality of life.

“This plan reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff and partners in developing a shared vision for health and social care in North Lanarkshire. I’m confident it meets the needs of people in their own communities, enabling them to lead better and more independent lives.

“It’s important to thank the people of North Lanarkshire for engaging with the process and contributing to the development of this plan. The engagement process ensured a wide range of people who use services, carers, partner organisations and staff had an opportunity to participate in shaping the plan by sharing their experiences.

“High quality community health and social care services play a crucial role in supporting people with long-term health conditions to maintain their health and reduce the likelihood of hospital admissions or further health complications.

“This plan has been developed to achieve these wide-ranging goals in partnership with our local communities. It reflects the needs and aspirations of the people of North Lanarkshire by helping people to access the wider range of services and support that they need.

“The plan will be implemented over the next three years, with progress monitored regularly to ensure that services continue to meet the needs and goals of local people.”