University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire has published its Annual Performance Report for 2024/25 following approval by the Integration Joint Board.
The report showcases several areas where local health and social care services are delivering results that meet or exceed national standards.
Among the most notable achievements, North Lanarkshire has surpassed a significant milestone in breastfeeding, with breastfeeding rates amongst new mums exceeding 50% for the first time and reaching a high of 50.7%.
This accomplishment is reinforced by North Lanarkshire being awarded the prestigious UNICEF Gold Baby Friendly Accreditation, which recognises excellence in supporting breastfeeding and mother-baby relationships.
The wider community’s commitment is also reflected by more than 670 North Lanarkshire businesses participating in the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme, creating a welcoming environment for families.
The report also reveals the number of days people experiencing delayed discharge from hospital when they are ready to be discharged is significantly below the national average, with North Lanarkshire recording 825 days per 1,000 population compared to 952 nationally up to June.
Listening to people’s wishes has led to 88.9% of people who want to remain at home or in the community during the last six months being able to do so. This is done to ensure people receiving end-of-life care experience person-centred, community-based care.
Support for adults with intensive care needs is another area of strength, as the health and social care partnership outperforms the national average by enabling 65.6% of people to remain at home, compared to 64.7% across Scotland.
The falls rate among people aged 65 and over was lower than the Scottish average, indicating effective prevention and support in the community. More adults with intensive support needs are being cared for at home in North Lanarkshire than the national average, further supporting the area’s “home first” approach.
Digital innovation is another area of strong performance. The transition from analogue to digital telecare is well advanced, with more than 3,400 analogue community alarm units replaced ahead of the national switch-off. This achievement was recognised with the Bronze Digital Telecare Implementation Award, supporting safer and more responsive care at home.
Brian Moore, Chair of the North Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board, commented: “These achievements are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and compassion of our staff, partners, and volunteers across North Lanarkshire.
“From getting people home from hospital sooner, to improving access to mental health support for children and young people, and achieving UNICEF Gold for infant feeding, staff have worked tirelessly for our communities.
“Our focus now is to build on this progress and keep improving every service, together.”
