THE Scottish government has launched an £85 million investment to tackle soaring delayed discharge rates.

In 2024-25, a staggering an average of 1,973 beds per day were occupied by people who could leave if options such as at-home care packages, or care home places were available — the highest since present recording practices began in 2016.

First Minister John Swinney pledged the cash to grow the Hospital at Home service, which aims to give people care at home as opposed to in a healthcare setting, to 2,000 beds and provide “frailty teams” at all A&Es to tackle the issue.

He said: “I am resolutely focused on taking the necessary action to reduce wait times and clear the blockages leading to delayed discharges across our NHS.

“This investment will ensure many patients can receive first-class NHS care in the comfort of their own homes and not have to travel to a hospital where it isn’t required.

“The NHS is Scotland’s greatest treasure but we know we must do better to ensure patients get the care they need, when and where they need it.”