Amended Motion 62
Ensuring a Safe & Sustainable Transition to the Reduced Working Week within the NHS
“That this Congress notes the introduction of the reduced working week in April 2026, a major policy change intended to improve workforce wellbeing, retention, and productivity across Scotland’s public services.
“Congress further notes that Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) are central to the delivery of safe, effective, and preventative care across the NHS.
“Congress recognises that AHP services already face significant workforce and service pressures, including long-standing recruitment and retention challenges, rising caseloads, and post-pandemic demand. Without adequate planning and investment, there is a risk that the reduced working week could intensify workloads, extend waiting lists, and compromise the wellbeing of AHPs.
“Congress believes that this policy must enhance, not undermine, AHP services. Any reduction in contracted hours must be accompanied by investment in workforce expansion, improved workload management, and active engagement with unions and professional bodies representing the full breadth of the AHP workforce.
“Congress affirms that there must be no detriment to pay, terms and conditions, or professional autonomy for AHPs during and after implementation.
“Congress therefore calls on the Scottish Government, NHS Scotland, and local authority employers to publish a comprehensive AHP workforce impact assessment; deliver a fully funded AHP recruitment and retention strategy; develop a national implementation framework to ensure consistent and fair roll-out; and review caseload benchmarks, staffing levels, and service models to prevent workload intensification.
“Congress further calls for the establishment of a national monitoring group, with meaningful representation from all AHP unions and professional bodies to oversee the transition, ensure safe staffing, and share best practice.
“Congress calls on the General Council to campaign to ensure that the reduced working week is implemented in a safe, sustainable, and fully resourced way that strengthens all AHP professions and supports the wellbeing of the workforce.”
Mover: Royal College of Podiatry
Seconder: The British Dietetic Association
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