The Scottish Government has announced a £19 billion package for health and social care services.

The package is intended to tackle the immediate pressures due to the pandemic and a tough winter, while also supporting the delivery of health and care services that are fit for the future.

As part of the Scottish Budget, health boards across Scotland will receive a 6 per cent boost in funding.

£9 billion will be spent on giving staff a fair wage and social care and integration will also receive £1.7 billion in funding over the year. The funding for social care is to be used to deliver reforms of social care, continue work towards creating a National Care Service, and improving conditions for care workers.

£1.2 billion will be spent on mental health services and more than £2 billion will be used to deliver and improve primary health care services in the community.

£160 million is to be used to address public health emergencies and reduce harms associated with drugs and alcohol.

Health Secretary, Humza Yousaf, said: “Frontline workers are the foundation of our health and care services and I am extremely grateful for them for getting us through the pandemic and facing-down one of the toughest winters in NHS history.

“This historic settlement took some difficult decisions, but we are steadfast in efforts to address the immediate pressures on health and social care services, and support fair work and pay.

“I want health and care services that are fit for the future – a future where Scotland continues to be the best place for health and care workers and where everyone gets the care that they need, where and when they need it.”