Since becoming First Minister, I have spent much of my time meeting people and listening to their concerns, hopes and ambitions.

It is clear people are realistic about the challenges facing Scotland – challenges facing countries all over the world – but what is clearer is their determination to create a brighter future, especially for their children and grandchildren.

As First Minister, I absolutely share that determination to transform Scotland.

In January, I said there is nothing wrong in Scotland that cannot be fixed by what is right in Scotland. That remains truer today than ever.

Swinney: I’ve listened to families across Scotland — this is what they really need (Image: Colin Mearns/NQ)

We have made huge progress by delivering policies that have helped transform lives and communities all over Scotland.

Take free prescriptions, the baby box, free higher education, and public investment in a social security system that treats people with dignity and respect. These policies have helped change the lives of millions of Scots.

But we must go further. I know that people expect their public services to be better – as they should.

Too often, services have been delivered in silos, creating barriers for those using them, especially those who need support the most.

That must change. We must deliver a generational shift in how we access public services in Scotland. Put........

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