The recent decision by the UK Government to reject proposed exemptions to the Employer National Insurance (NI) increase for health and care providers will apply across the UK, including Scotland. As Employer NI is a reserved matter, this increase affects all employers equally – regardless of sector or devolved health arrangements. However, Optometry Scotland remains mindful of the additional pressure this places on community eye care providers already managing rising operational costs within a fixed-fee GOS framework.
Following a letter to MSP, Shona Robison, asking for clarification on the allocation of Employer’s National Insurance Contributions (eNICs) relief funding, it has been confirmed by the Scottish Government that this funding of £144 million to cover additional eNICs liabilities has been provided to local authorities via the block grant.
While allocation of these funds is at the discretion of individual local authorities based on local priorities, it is disappointing that this support is not being made directly available to NHS community optometry practices. We note that the Scottish Ministers are continuing to press the UK Government, alongside COSLA, to fund the full additional costs of this policy for both public and commissioned services.
Optometry Scotland continues to advocate for a funding model that reflects the true cost of delivering high-quality NHS eye care and supports the long-term sustainability of services across Scotland.Optometry Scotland continues to advocate for a funding model that reflects the true cost of delivering high-quality NHS eye care and supports the long-term sustainability of services across Scotland.