MS Society Scotland launch Manifesto

More needs to be done to put patients at the heart of health and social care to give them greater control over how services are delivered. That’s one of the key messages in the MS Society’s manifesto for the Holyrood elections which was launched in the Scottish Parliament today.

Through initiatives such as self directed support and peer-led support programmes individuals can take charge of their own care and the management of their symptoms.

The manifesto focuses on three key areas: the neurological standards published by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland, ensuring that research is made a priority and the personalisation of services that comes with putting people in control.

Speaking prior to the launch Craig Wilkie, Head of Policy and Communications at the MS Society, said:
“Our manifesto takes a realistic and responsible approach in recognising the economic difficulties that the country currently faces. It is not an extravagant shopping list. It sets out how resources can be maximised by giving people control and by ensuring that the clinical standards for neurological services are fully implemented”.

The launch was attended by members of the MS Society Scotland’s Policy Forum and the following MSPs:

Elaine Smith
Jackson Carlaw
John Wilson
Tricia Marwick
Joe Fitzpatrick

Mary Scanlon MSP kindly hosted the event and guests heard from MS Society members Clive Whiteside and Sue Polson on why the Manifesto is important to them.