Strengthening financial sustainability measures.
NHS Ayrshire and Arran is to receive additional support
over ongoing financial sustainability issues.
The health board has been moved to Stage 4 of the NHS Scotland
Support and InterventionFramework. A Scottish Government-led
Assurance Board will strengthen measures already in place and
support the new leadership team to ensure appropriate financial
governance, as well as assist with longer term planning and
improvement.
Health Secretary said:
"Getting finances back on track is essential for patients and
staff alike – it means NHS Ayrshire and Arran can plan
effectively for the future and continue investing in the services
local people rely on.
“The 2026-27 draft Scottish Budget provides record funding for
health boards, including a real terms uplift of 1.8%. NHS
Ayrshire and Arran will receive nearly £1.1 billion in 2026-27,
which equates to increased investment of £88.2 million since
2025-26.
“Escalation to Stage 4 brings enhanced scrutiny and dedicated
support from the Scottish Government. I have confidence in
interim Chief Executive Gordon James and his leadership team, and
we will work closely with them over the coming months to return
the health board to a sustainable financial footing.”
Background
Stage 4 is the second formal stage of
escalation required when tailored
support is not producing the required improvements –
NHS Scotland: support and
intervention framework - gov.scot
On 4 November 2025, Audit Scotland published a Section 22
report regarding NHS Ayrshire and Arran's financial
position concluding “the severity of the financial
challenge facing NHS Ayrshire and Arran is unprecedented” -
The 2024/25 audit of NHS
Ayrshire and Arran | Audit Scotland
