Main points

Number of people delayed

At the July 2024 census, there were 1,961 people delayed. Compared to the previous three census points this is less than June 2024 (1,991) and greater than May 2024 (1,955) and April 2024 (1,912).

The number of people delayed varies across the Local Authorities. Chart 4 in the All delay reasons workbook shows the variation in the rate of delays per population at the July 2024 census.

Length of delay at census point

The average (median) length of delay for people delayed at the July 2024 census was 28 days. Compared to the previous three months, this is the same as June and April 2024 and slightly longer than May 2024 (27 days).

Average number of beds occupied per day

In July 2024 the average number of beds occupied per day due to people delayed in hospital was 1,973. Compared to the previous three months this is lower than June 2024 (1,983) and higher than May 2024 (1,942) and April 2024 (1,914).

The chart below shows that the trend in the average daily number of beds occupied by people delayed in their discharge is predominantly driven by the trend in standard delays (health and social care and patient, family and carer related) reasons.

Image caption Delayed Discharge bed use in Scotland from July 2021 to July 2024, by delay reason1

1 Further information on the Delay Reason definitions is available in the Definitions we use section of this publication.

Delayed days in hospital

In July 2024 there were 61,165 days spent in hospital by people whose discharge was delayed. This is a 9% increase on the number of delayed days in July 2023 (56,138).

Last updated: 11 December 2024
Was this page helpful?