A joint statement on prevention: Where are we now for Scotland’s health and wellbeing?
/This article was featured in the SCDC Weekly - 9th September 2026
A year ago, our partnership published a joint statement on prevention, setting out urgent actions we believe are vital to effectively implement prevention policy towards addressing health inequalities and improving health outcomes in Scotland.
Now, as we enter a critical period, with a new five-year Programme for Government, this updated statement provides our view on progress so far. We are also happy to welcome Volunteer Scotland to the partnership.
Action one update: We need a clear definition and understanding of prevention
We have seen important work around prevention carried out over recent months. However, we believe a greater emphasis is required on the central ambition to improve health and wellbeing outcomes and reducing health inequalities.
It’s vital we frame prevention in ways that can be applied system-wide - not just as a way to reduce pressure on public services. That means approaches led by and with communities, with a focus on improving Scotland’s health and wellbeing.
Action two update: We must put the hard-to-do parts of policy into practice
We continue to urge decision-makers to focus first and foremost on building with, and learning from, existing well-established and high-quality work in and with communities.
That means a focus on co-production and power-sharing; long-term investment in the community and third sector; true transparency and accountability; and collaboration and integration across silos and sectors.
Action three update: We need a whole system approach with a properly resourced third sector
Over the last year we have witnessed the closure of many projects and whole organisations upon which so many of our communities depend.
Simply put, we can’t go on like this. We must accelerate long term Fair Funding, enabling sustainable investment in people, services and organisations to help keep doors open and lights on.
Next steps
Over the coming months, our organisations will each be publishing new resources that provide insights around this critical work. You can get updates on these publications on the CHEX website.
SCDC & CHEX, Voluntary Health Scotland, The ALLIANCE, the Edinburgh Community Health Forum, and Volunteer Scotland.