The council leader has warned that the Scottish Government’s 2026/27 budget will place further strain on already stretched social care services.
Despite announcements of additional funding, the budget does not fully cover the rising costs facing social care.
Health and Social Care Partnerships across Scotland reported a funding gap of almost £500 million in 2025/26, with councils facing a further £528 million shortfall in 2026/27.
Demand continues to outstrip funding available both locally and nationally which is putting significant pressure on the system.
“The funding provided falls well short of addressing pay, inflation and growing demand,” said Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of North Lanarkshire Council.
“Social care is not an optional service – it is a lifeline for many of our residents and a vital support for families and communities across our area.
“Here in North Lanarkshire the 2026/27 cost pressures for social care alone are £38.7m, and the gap remaining to be met after income is £12.5m.
“Adding this to a £12.1m budget gap on Health Services means the Health & Social Care Partnership is facing a pressure of £24.6m.
“This budget does not provide the funding needed to protect and strengthen these services, and the impact will be felt by the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“Without proper and sustainable investment, councils are left trying to bridge impossible funding gaps. That puts pressure on care providers, on staff, and ultimately on the people who rely on social care to live safely and independently.”
Demand for care continues to rise. Across Scotland, the number of people waiting for a social care assessment has increased by 28% in the past year, with thousands waiting for care at home packages.
While £160 million has been allocated nationally to support an uplift in the Real Living Wage, this is around £15 million short of what is needed. This underfunding increases financial pressure on councils as commissioners of social care services and risks pushing care providers closer to the brink.
The budget also fails to provide additional funding to meet baseline pressures or to support a shift towards preventative social care services.
As a result, councils may be forced to consider difficult choices, including service reductions, increased charges and the use of limited reserves.