On 10 September 2025, the Scottish Government launched its new palliative care strategy, ‘Palliative Care Matters for All (2025-30)’, alongside a three-year delivery plan (2025-28).
Through the strategy, the government aims to ensure that by 2030, people have equitable access to high-quality, well-coordinated palliative and end of life care, with support tailored to what matters to them and their families.
With a total of 23 actions, the delivery plan then sets out how the government will work in partnership to deliver the changes outlined in the strategy.
Reacting to the publication of the strategy, Nick Carroll, Chief Executive of Together for Short Lives said:
We welcome the publication of Scotland’s new palliative care strategy and its accompanying delivery plan. We are particularly encouraged by the commitment to improving access to 24/7 support for children and families.
The Scottish Government is right to commit to supporting Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) to further develop the national Paediatric Palliative Care Clinical Advisory Service. Strengthening this service will enhance support for healthcare professionals and help CHAS ensure that seriously ill children and their families receive consistent, high-quality care wherever they live.
However, if we are to realise this vision, it is essential that the right funding and workforce are in place. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government, CHAS, and other partners to ensure the strategy delivers meaningful and lasting improvements.
