Finance Secretary – Budget for the NHS and cost of living

The Scottish Government's 2026-27 draft Budget will focus on the priorities of the people of Scotland such as the NHS and helping with the cost of living, Finance Secretary Shona Robison has said. 

The Budget follows constructive engagement across Parliament and will seek to ensure further progress on eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, delivering strong and sustainable public services and tackling the climate emergency. 

Ms Robison said:  

“We will deliver a Budget that focuses resolutely on the people of Scotland's priorities – driving further improvements in the NHS and supporting people with the cost of living at a time when so many people are struggling to make ends meet.

“We will use this Budget to continue the progress we are delivering in Scotland – bringing down NHS waiting lists, supporting families, reducing child poverty and growing the economy.

“The budget measures we take forward will stand in stark contrast to those of the UK Government which are holding Scotland back. 

“Our Budget will continue the trusted leadership that this government is providing in Scotland and drive progress on the issues people in Scotland care about the most.”

Background 

The 2026-27 draft Budget will be published on Tuesday, 13 January 2026.