Ambulances in Scotland ‘running on empty’ despite Nicola Sturgeon pledge to reduce use of single crews
Despite a pledge from Nicola Sturgeon to reduce the use of single crews in ambulances, a recent report shows that ambulances in Scotland are still operating with just one crew member on thousands of shifts. The Scottish Labour party revealed through a freedom of information request that nearly seven staff members had to man a shift on their own each day on average. This practice has continued despite Sturgeon’s call in 2008 for the Scottish Ambulance Service to prohibit emergency responders from attending incidents solo.
The SNP Government has come under fire for not fulfilling their promise to crack down on single-crewed ambulance shifts. In the period from 2019 to 2023, over 13,565 single-crew ambulance shifts were recorded, putting immense pressure on ambulance staff. Scottish Labour’s health spokeswoman, Dame Jackie Baillie, expressed concern over the ongoing prevalence of single crewing, stating that it places unbearable pressure on staff and impacts patient care.
In response, a Scottish Government spokesperson defended the occasional use of single crews, attributing it to exceptional circumstances such as staff shortages or sudden increases in demand. They highlighted ongoing efforts to reduce instances of single crewing, including increased investment and recruitment of additional staff. The Scottish Ambulance Service also defended the practice, citing the valuable role single crews play in providing rapid response and initial care in critical situations.
While the Scottish Government and the SAS argue for the necessity of single crews in certain contexts, the debate surrounding the impact on staff well-being and patient outcomes continues. As pressure mounts on the healthcare system, calls for a more sustainable and supportive approach to ambulance staffing persist.
Insights:
This article sheds light on the concerning issue of single-crewed ambulance shifts in Scotland despite previous pledges to address the issue. The continued reliance on single crews raises questions about the effectiveness of current measures to support ambulance staff and ensure optimal patient care. It underscores the need for sustained investment in the healthcare system to alleviate pressures on frontline workers and enhance emergency response capabilities.
In conclusion, this report highlights a critical area for improvement within the Scottish ambulance service, urging stakeholders to reevaluate staffing practices and prioritise the well-being of both staff and patients. Addressing the challenges associated with single-crewed shifts is essential for building a resilient and responsive healthcare system in Scotland.