Spotlight Episode 5.3: Why is prevention so hard?
Published: 14 March 2025
Commentary
Why is prevention so hard in public policy? We explore the challenges and solutions with Caroline Gardner and Fiona Duncan.
Today’s podcast focuses on a big question in public policy – why is prevention so hard? Can we spend money more wisely? Given the fiscal pressures on the system, prevention is now not just an option but a necessity to create sustainable public services. Policymakers know we should be tackling the root causes of issues, but systems, short-termism and complexity get in the way. We discuss overcoming these barriers with the former Auditor General for Scotland, Caroline Gardner, and Fiona Duncan, the Independent Strategic Advisor on The Promise Scotland.
First published: 14 March 2025