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West Lothian’s Integration Joint Board (IJB) is looking for views to help shape the future delivery of local adult health, social work, and social care services. The IJB has responsibility for planning most health and social care services for adults in West Lothian, and faces an estimated budget gap of over £20 million over the next two years. It is now looking for residents, service users, carers, staff, and local organisations to take part in a public consultation over potential proposals to bridge the budget gap. Over £8.9 million in savings were delivered in 2024/25, and the mix of rising costs, increasing demand, and the growing complexity of people’s needs makes maintaining current service levels increasingly challenging. The IJB is legally required to set a balanced budget, and must now make difficult decisions on the necessary steps to achieve this. A range of options, with the potential to contribute to reducing some of the projected budget gap have been put forward by officers who work in the West Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership. Discussion is also ongoing with NHS Lothian centrally to identify efficiencies to help to address the remainder of the budget gap. No decisions have been made yet. Members of the IJB will consider all feedback when setting the budget for 2026/2027 on 24 March 2026. The consultation runs from October 28 to December 9 and seeks feedback on a range of proposals aimed at maximising efficiency in service delivery and contracts; transforming services through digital innovation and new models of care and making difficult choices, including potential reductions in services Alison White, West Lothian IJB Chief Officer said: “This is a critical time for adult health and social care in West Lothian, we want to hear from the people who use our services, their families, our staff, and the wider community. “Before any major decisions are made, the IJB wants to make sure that you have the chance to share your views and your feedback will be essential to informing how we prioritise resources and deliver care in the future. “We value your opinions and are committed to making decisions that reflect a clear understanding of their potential impact on our community.” Further engagement will take place throughout Autumn 2025 on specific proposals. To take part in the consultation and learn more, visit: https://westlothianhscp.org.uk/ijb-consultation Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here .
