Below is an extract from the upcoming programme “Episode 4 of State of Our Nation: Global Perspectives” which is released on Tuesday 24th February.
In this episode of State of Our Nation: Global Perspectives, we are joined by Donald Macaskill, Chief Executive of Scottish Care, for a deeply reflective conversation about the state of social care in Scotland – and what it reveals about care systems more broadly.
“Good care is the embodiment of good human rights practice,” Donald says.
Drawing on decades of experience across social care, human rights, bereavement, and palliative care, Donald shares a journey shaped not by policy first, but by people. From supporting individuals to move out of long-stay hospitals and into their own communities, to sitting with someone at the end of life, he reminds us that the most meaningful moments in care are relational.
We explore Scotland’s ambitious attempt to create a National Care Service, the promise of the Feeley Review, and the lessons learned when reform becomes politicised and disconnected from those delivering and receiving care.
Donald speaks candidly about what he describes as a human rights crisis in plain sight: people waiting weeks or months for assessments or placements, some dying while they wait. These “hidden deaths,” he argues, reflect a society that continues to undervalue both care and older people.
Yet the episode ends with hope. Donald reflects on the opportunities innovation, technology, and ethical AI present – if grounded in dignity, rights, and collaboration rather than competition.
As Access Social Care has grown, so has our impact — and our website needed to evolve too.
Our new site is brighter, clearer, and built around the people who use it most: our member organisations and professionals across the community care sector. By simplifying navigation and removing digital clutter, we’ve made it easier to engage with our work, access what you need, and understand the difference we make.
We invite you to explore the new site here:
https://www.accesscharity.org.uk
Kari Gerstheimer
CEO, Access Social Care
