“I would be lost without them,” said one person supported by South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) Home Assessment and Care at Home teams. Another described staff as “my guardian angels”.
These reflections were shared during a recent visit by senior leaders, who met staff in Hamilton to recognise the role they play in helping people return home, rebuild confidence and continue living independently.
The Home Assessment Team (HAT) provides short‑term support for people leaving hospital or recovering from illness, helping them regain everyday skills and confidence at home. The Care at Home Team provides ongoing care for people with longer‑term needs, enabling them to stay safe, connected and well in their own communities. Together, the teams support families at key moments and help reduce unnecessary time spent in hospital.
Councillor Margaret Walker, Chair of the South Lanarkshire Integration Joint Board (IJB), said: “These services play a vital role in supporting people to live well at home. At the same time, we recognise the growing demand for care and the pressures that creates for individuals waiting for support, for families and for staff delivering services. In that context, it is particularly important to celebrate and value the contribution of our teams as they continue to work with compassion and professionalism.”
Both services were recently graded ‘very good’ by the Care Inspectorate, providing independent assurance on the quality and consistency of care. Inspectors highlighted the strength of staff teams, effective communication and the dignity, respect and compassion shown to people and their families.
Lesley McDonald, Vice Chair of the IJB, said: “From speaking with staff, it was clear how strongly they hold onto the values of kindness, dignity and respect, even in a demanding environment. That commitment makes a real difference to people and to families who rely on these services.”
Laura Arthur, Hamilton Locality Manager, said: “Our teams support people at key moments, whether that’s recovering after a hospital stay or managing longer‑term needs at home. Strong teamwork and shared responsibility are essential in a demanding environment and that is clearly reflected in the care being delivered.”
Each week, the Hamilton Home Assessment Team supports around 60 people and delivers more than 700 visits, while the Care at Home service delivers approximately 7,200 visits, contributing to the strong performance seen through the winter in reducing hospital delays in South Lanarkshire and supporting more people to live as independently as possible at home.
Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care in South Lanarkshire, said: “Thanks are due to our local communities for their support, their patience and the feedback they share, including when services are under pressure.
“These inspection results recognise the dedication that our care staff bring to their work and the quality of support that we deliver every day. This is a success not only for the service, but for every individual and family who relies on our care.”
