Glaswegians submit hundreds of complaints

HUNDREDS of hospital patients across Glasgow have complained about their discharge from hospitals in the past five years.

Figures obtained by Scottish Labour through freedom of information show that more than 800 complaints were lodged against NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde since 2014/15 over such issues.

A total of 813 people lodged grievances relating to their discharge from hospitals in the area, with more than half, 456, upheld or partially upheld.

Delays to hospital discharge often arise because a social care package to allow someone to safely return home or to community-based care is not in place.

At the census point in each month of 2019/20 so far, around three-quarters of delays have been due to health and social care reasons.

Now, Scottish Labour have said social care shortages are leaving people in hospitals longer than they should be.

The party’s health spokesperson Monica Lennon MSP said: “Sadly, social care delays continue to stop people from leaving hospital and returning safely to their own homes or a community setting.

“The Scottish Government has broad support for its plans to integrate health and social care services but it needs to step up and deliver.

“People should not be stuck in hospital because of social care shortages.

“Scottish Labour is committed to introducing a Scottish Care Service to improve the working conditions for social care staff, reduce waiting times, and to help our NHS.”