The team worked with members and partners to influence policy on an array of issues related to COVID-19 and more.

The ALLIANCE is delighted to announce a new fixture in our events calendar for 2021 – People at the Centre: ALLIANCE Digital Gathering.

Scotland’s care sector needs a cultural overhaul to improve the quality of work and care, according to interviews with front-line workers.

Analysis by the Scottish Government shows the negative effects of the pandemic have been borne unequally and will have long lasting impact.

The research explored experiences and impacts of lockdown; service access and provision; information sources; and trust and accessibility.

The national report provides information and analysis of staff experience in health and social care during the initial COVID-19 period.

New report published demonstrates the impact of COVID-19 and workplace pressures on pharmacists.

Take part in a UK Wide Research Project with SCLD and the University of Glasgow on COVID-19 and people with learning disabilities.

NHS National Services Scotland and Public Health Scotland explain what to expect when a COVID-19 contact tracer calls.

The report from the Scottish Parliament's Health and Sport Committee found 54% of survey respondents had their care reduced or stopped.

The Scottish Government plan includes continued prioritisation of the Home First approach to care, and increased funding for care providers.

A new COVID-19 PPE Plan has been developed by the Scottish Government, to ensure PPE remains available to those who need it.

A new scheme to provide physical and digital exemption cards to people unable to wear face coverings has been launched.

The NHS Winter Preparedness Plan includes funding to support health and social care keyworkers and increasing seasonal flu vaccination.

Public Health Scotland did not find statistically significant correspondence with outbreaks.

The survey gave an insight into how people feel IBD services have been impacted by the pandemic.

The Strategic Framework introduces a five-tier strategic approach to suppress Coronavirus and support recovery.

We propose incorporating international human rights law into Scots law, and taking a human rights based approach to budgeting.

New cross-sector guidance to support people living with sensory loss during the COVID-19 lockdown has been published.

The 'Coronavirus (COVID-19): mental health-transition and recovery plan' sets out its response to the mental health impacts of the pandemic.

The Scottish Human Rights Commission reports it is is "deeply concerned" about the future social care support available to people.

The Scottish Government consultation deadline is 5 January 2021.

The ALLIANCE has developed a briefing paper which summarises the key findings from the engagement report.

This new funding from the Scottish Government is to support the COVID-19 pandemic response and winter preparations.

The Scottish Government's Social Renewal Advisory Board wants to hear ideas from organisations, groups and communities.

A new report from the Care Inspectorate explores care at home and housing support services during the pandemic.

Public Health Scotland guidance to prevent negative impacts on health for the most marginalised people in our communities.

The Digital Health and Care Institute would like to interview people for a research project about accessing services relevant to COVID-19.

The free mobile phone app has been designed to help people protect each other, reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid further lockdowns.

Glasgow University study would like to hear from organisations on their experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Catch up on all the activity from the ALLIANCE's first online and week-long conference, 7 - 11 September 2020.

The General Medical Council guidance considers concerns about doctors’ practice during the pandemic.

Here's what happened on the penultimate day of the ALLIANCE's first online and week-long conference.

Catch up on activity from day three of the ALLIANCE's first online and week-long conference.

Catch up on activity from day two of the ALLIANCE's first online and week-long conference.

Here's what happened on day one of the ALLIANCE's first online and week-long conference.

Scotland's largest stroke care charity has called on the Scottish Government to set out a long-term package of support.

National Autistic Society report highlights that many people have been left without the support and information they need to get by.

Jeane Freeman MSP has answered ALLIANCE members’ questions on health and social care during and beyond COVID-19.

The Scottish Parliament would like to hear your views on two regulations related to the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 by 3 September 2020.

Sharing learning, future visions and challenges facing health and social care organisations across Scotland.

In this ALLIANCE live video and podcast, Jonathan Cameron talks about the latest Digital Health and Care developments in light of COVID-19.

The Scottish Government has developed a framework for how recovery and rehabilitation services will support people affected by the pandemic.

Send in your questions for our ALLIANCE annual conference interview with Jeane Freeman MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport.

Find out how you can watch our latest ALLIANCE Live interview in conversation with Angiolina Foster, Chief Executive of NHS 24.

The Scottish Government has considered the equalities impact of key frameworks which guide decision making around Coronavirus care.

Our latest ALLIANCE Live interview sheds light on the experience of COVID-19 for GPs and the use of instruments in creating calmness.

Glasgow University study to explore how lockdown impacts on groups already experiencing isolation or societal exclusion.

The survey from the Scottish Parliament's Cross Party Group on Women's Health is open until 7 August 2020.

National Autistic Society Scotland is calling on schools to provide all autistic children with a personalised transition plan.

The Coalition of Carers in Scotland study found that most carers were unable to use SDS in a more flexible way during this period.

Draft legislation being considered by the COVID-19 Committee would help staff if they are ill with Coronavirus or are self-isolating.

The youth work sector has now been given the go-ahead to return to some face-to-face delivery outdoors.

"There’s still a very stubborn resistance to looking at how we can better balance work and childcare."

The Mental Health Foundation is carrying out a study on COPD and mental wellbeing during the COVID-19.

A Carers Trust Scotland survey has highlighted that 68% of young adult carers in Scotland say their mental health is worse since COVID-19.

Find out how children and families have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Shielders are still two or three steps behind and we just seem to be be very much the forgotten people".

The ALLIANCE has submitted a response to the IJB Executive Group on adult social care and future planning after COVID-19.

In the last week, we've spoken to Scotland's Chief Medical Officer, newly qualified nurses on the frontline and people currently shielding.

The ‘Collective Care Futures’ programme supports reflection and learning from COVID-19 across care homes and care at home contexts.

The Mental Health Foundation and the University of Strathclyde would like to hear from people over the age of 18 and living in Scotland.

Clare Haughey MSP joined an online social group organised by National Autistic Society Scotland to hear about COVID-19's impact.

Find out how you can catch up with Dr Gregor Smith’s interview.

We interviewed GPs about the Near Me platform, spoke to experts about supported employment and shared a physiotherapy class.

The ALLIANCE has published a briefing paper on social care and the use of emergency powers during COVID-19.

COVID-19 Test and Protect service information now available in accessible formats and different languages.

In our latest ALLIANCE Live, Blythe Robertson (General Manager Policy and Partnerships, NDS) discusses the COVID-19 SMS shielding service.

54% of respondents to a Cerebral Palsy Scotland survey reported that restrictions were impacting negatively on their mental health.

Chief Executive of Social Enterprise Scotland discusses how the sector has faired during the pandemic and how it can respond.

In the last week, ALLIANCE Live released interviews on social care, disabled people's experiences and Community Links Practitioners.

The latest ALLIANCE Live podcast hears from Annie Gunner Logan, the Director of the Coalition of Care and Support Provider's in Scotland.

The latest ALLIANCE Live podcast hears from Morven Brooks, Disability Equality Scotland, on the results of their latest survey.

Over 30 organisations have signed a joint letter to the Scottish Government to highlight the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A newly published report outlines people's lived experience of living with MS during the COVID-19 lockdown.

This week we had podcasts talking about the impact of music on people with dementia, palliative care and webinars on digital health tools.

The ALLIANCE has responded to the Scottish Government and COSLA's call for comment on plans to begin reopening day services.

The ALLIANCE has responded to the Scottish Government's call for comment on plans to change shielding arrangements.

Send us your questions by 19 June for an ALLIANCE Live interview that will be released in late June on the voice of newly qualified nurses.

The NHS Scotland Test and Protect service has been introduced to control the spread of coronavirus as lockdown measures are eased.

People who have had a stroke, and their loved ones, may be facing additional challenges due to the COVID-19.

For Carers Week, the ALLIANCE partnered with Scotland’s National Carer Organisations for a Q&A session with Professor Jason Leitch.

The Scottish Government has been working with Young Scot for the past 3 years to develop a dedicated platform for young carers.

An ALLIANCE Live interview with Aberlour (Scotland's Children's Charity).

A weekly poll by ALLIANCE member, Disability Equality Scotland, has uncovered some serious and troubling experiences.

Public Health Scotland's survey will gather the views and experiences of people who are shielding in Scotland for the Scottish Government.  

A framework has been published setting out the approach to re-mobilising services in response to COVID-19 disruption.

This week ALLIANCE Live covered GP Practice Nursing and COVID-19, using technology to reduce isolation and loneliness during lockdown.

The ALLIANCE and the Scottish Human Rights Commission have submitted a joint response to the Finance Committee.

An ALLIANCE Live interview with Director of Children and Family Services at Children 1st, Linda Jardine.

New funding to help smaller organisations across the UK support older people most affected by COVID-19.  

In the last week, we released interviews on intersectionality and COVID-19, student carers and education and the importance of mindfulness.

An ALLIANCE Live interview with Anuj Kapilashrami, PhD, Queen Mary University of London.

New information on COVID-19 testing for children being moved between or to new care placements

In the last week we released interviews covering the third sector response to COVID-19, digital self management and inclusive communication.

The ALLIANCE has responded to the COVID-19 Committee's call for views on changing lockdown arrangements.

The ALLIANCE has responded to the Equalities and Human Rights Committee's call for views on the coronavirus pandemic.

Calum Irving addressed ALLIANCE members' questions on support for the third sector in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Joint Scottish Government and COSLA guidance on self-directed support options 1 and 2.

An ALLIANCE Live conversation with Wendy Halliday of See Me, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

The ALLIANCE's response to an inquiry on vulnerable children in the Coronavirus pandemic by the Education and Skills Committee.

Information and guidance for front line staff on accessible communication.

Take part in the Carer Voices ‘Message in a bottle’ social media campaign to promote messages of hope during these difficult times.

A new £5 million programme will offer internet connection, training and support, and a device to vulnerable people who are not online.

Information for people worried that they, or someone they care about, is at increased risk of getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19.

“We need to find a different way of balancing keeping people safe, with giving people autonomy, control and choice as citizens.”

See the latest Scottish Government issued Cyber Resilience Notices regarding COVID-19.

A shortened COVID-19 version of Principles into Practice that sets out key actions and considerations for use and a survey.

Find a full listing of the various ALLIANCE Live productions that have been published this week.

NHS Lothian and the Carer Voices project have launched a printable 'hug' postcard to support health professionals in responding to COVID-19.

The ALLIANCE has responded to the Scottish Government's Framework for COVID-19 decision making.

Upcoming ALLIANCE Live with the Head of the Third Sector Unit at the Scottish Government.

Over 100 organisations have joined forces to issue urgent plea for politicians to do more to protect carers from a growing poverty crisis.

Have a look at a round up of ALLIANCE Live activity for the week commencing 30 April 2020.

Upcoming ALLIANCE Live with Scottish Care Chief Executive, Donald Macaskill.

Recommendations published by the ALLIANCE to improve guidance on social care during the pandemic.

In this podcast, Gillian McCauley, Nurse Director - Acute Services at NHS Lothian shares how doing what matters is all that matters.

ALLIANCE members, Action for M.E. have launched a combined service open to anyone living with, or supporting someone with M.E.

As a critical part of the healthcare community, the pharmaceutical industry must play the biggest possible role in the response to COVID-19.

National Autistic Society Scotland awarded £45,000 from the Scottish Government to support autistic people and carers during lockdown.

Have a look at a round up of ALLIANCE Live activity for the week commencing 27 April 2020.

A COVID-19 response to support third sector resilience in Scotland.

Family Fund Business Services (FFBS) are collaborating with BBC Children in Need to deliver the Emergency Essentials programme.

Access SCLD's updated COVID-19 information and resource hub.

The report call for human rights to be at the heart of post-COVID budget decisions, to ensure social and economic recovery.

The Scottish Government published guidance regarding the expanded COVID-19 testing programme in Scotland and for testing of key workers.

An outline of the approach and principles that will guide decisions about transitioning out of the current lockdown arrangements.

Help and advice for parents to cope and stay calm during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Scottish Parliament's Health and Sport Committee will continue its role during the COVID-19 pandemic, holding meetings virtually.

Scottish organisations have written to the Home Secretary calling for parity with healthcare workers.

Scottish Government and Local Government share joint communication on how Scotland's employability services are responding to COVID-19.

Engender's Emma Ritch discusses the differences gender plays in dealing with COVID-19.

Membership and remit of the new Committee has been announced by the Scottish Parliament.

The ALLIANCE interviewed Jason Leitch, the Scottish Government’s National Clinical Director.

The 'Clear Your Head' website highlights practical steps people can take to support their mental health during this uncertain time.

New guidance to support healthcare staff to communicate effectively with people with sensory loss and complex communication support needs.

RSPH have created a survey to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on gambling harm.

National Autistic Society Scotland has welcomed Scottish Government changes to the ‘Stay at Home’ rules.

Nicola Bedlington, Special Advisor for the EPF, discusses how its continuing to involve the patient voice during COVID-19

National assistance helpline dedicated to helping those who cannot leave their home and who cannot get help online.

BBC Radio Scotland are among those all over Scotland pulling together to help their communities get through the COVID-19 crisis.

Briefing paper offers observations and recommendations on how to better recognise people's human rights.

Find out how our members have had to change the way they work when rising to the challenge of responding to the COVID-19 crisis.

NHS Lothian and the Carer Voices project are now offering support to carers and families with loved ones with dementia in acute hospitals.

Listen to Eilidh Carmichael, Policy Officer at the General Medical Council, on what you can expect from doctors during COVID-19.

Listen to Jonathan Burton from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in Scotland, with pharmaceutical advice during COVID-19.

Update from Scottish Government on areas of key interest.

Sharing the work of health and care organisations adapting and responding to COVID-19.

Building a database of support to be shared across the sight loss sector to inform visually impaired people and their families.

Inclusion Scotland survey aims to hear experiences from disabled people.

Upcoming ALLIANCE Live with Scotland's National Clinical Director.

The Scottish Government has published information on how Coronavirus may affect you if you have a neurological condition.

A call to share stories from people with long term conditions, disabled people and unpaid carers on COVID-19

Devolution of two key disability entitlements will be delayed by COVID-19.

National Autistic Society Scotland expresses concern about emergency legislation.

The First Minister has described the legislation as "an unprecedented response to an unprecedented situation".

Young Scot provides information on COVID-19 for young people, including a Q&A with the First Minister and National Clinical Director.

Join the Carer Voices project in turning recycled materials into inspiring art while at home.

The Scottish Government provides clinical guidance on COVID-19 for social care settings.

The letter provides information and support to those most at risk of COVID-19.

ALLIANCE member, Engender, have published a new briefing with recommendations for Scottish Government and MSPs.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) have launched the biggest volunteering drive in a generation.

Access to a Google Drive with collated general and Easy Read information and resources on Coronavirus (COVID-19).

A £20m emergency fund for charities, community groups, social enterprises and voluntary organisations working in Scotland.

An additional £350 million will go to those most affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Connect and share COVID-19 related information on health and social care through the ALLIANCE Live portal.

A message to our members and network about ALLIANCE operations, contact details and some useful external information sources.

Access resources for important information and support navigating COVID-19.

Charities launch new database to source emergency social care support for people across Scotland.

It has been adapted from advice produced for commissioners in England.

Listen to advice from Carers Scotland on how carers can prepare and minimise risk to themselves and the people for whom they care for.

Listen to Kate Cunningham from Energy Action Scotland, with energy saving tips for people spending time at home during COVID-19.

Listen to Colin Millar from SPAEN, with advice and support for people who employ personal assistants during COVID-19.

NHS Inform provides guidance and advice for COVID-19, available in BSL and easy read formats.

ALLIANCE briefing calls on politicians to ensure legislation remains under constant review.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has drafted advice on ways the public can support their local pharmacies during the COVID-19 crisis.

£350 million fund announced to support welfare and wellbeing.

Scottish Community Development Centre compile a list of resources on community response to COVID-19

An update from the Scottish Government Third Sector Unit on actions they are taking to support the third sector.

Assessments for PIP, ESA and Universal Credit will not be undertaken face to face as the UK aims to delay the spread of coronavirus.

Scotland deploys increased use of remote consultations.

Cabinet Secretary gives information and links to guidance relating to practices to deal with COVID-19 in residential care homes.

Message from Ian Welsh, Chief Executive of the ALLIANCE, regarding the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 and Self Management Fund grant holders.

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak the ALLIANCE is closed and all meetings are cancelled. The office is closed to hub users and members.

A statement on coronavirus, disabled people, people with long term conditions and carers.

Press release - Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland on the Coronavirus