What its response is to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s sixth report, 'Care Sector' (Module 6), which is due to be published on 20 October 2026.

We welcome the publication of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s Module 6 report on the impact of the pandemic on the publicly and privately funded adult social care sector across the four nations of the United Kingdom. A copy of the report is available online at: https://covid19.public-inquiry.uk/reports/During the pandemic, the Scottish Government’s foremost priority was to protect the public from the novel Covid-19 virus. Ministers sought to be open, transparent and accountable in respect of the decisions made. We extend our sincere and deepest condolences to the many thousands who have lost loved ones and who continue to experience the profound impacts of Covid-19.We recognise the loss, hurt and suffering experienced by people across Scotland and the rest of the UK, particularly among those who relied on, delivered or supported adult social care services during an exceptionally challenging period. We acknowledge the significant impact of the pandemic on people who draw on care and support, their families and loved ones, and the many unpaid carers who provided essential care, often in difficult and isolating circumstances. We would also like to reaffirm our gratitude to the health and social care workforce for their dedication, professionalism and commitment to supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities throughout the pandemic.The Scottish Government will now take the necessary time to fully and carefully consider the findings and recommendations set out in the Inquiry’s Module 6 report, and will provide a detailed response to the report’s recommendations in due course, in line with the timescales set out by the Inquiry chair.