New funding for specialist nurses in Scotland

An extra £2.5 million will be invested in specialist nursing and care, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced.

The first allocation of the new funding package, £700,000, will go towards nursing care and support for those with motor-neurone disease.

The Scottish Government will be engaging with patient groups through a short review of specialist nursing provision to determine where the remaining funding would be best targeted.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The Scottish Government recognises the vital role the targeted use specialist nurses play in patient care.

“This £2.5 million will go towards funding these specialist posts and make sure that everyone who requires care, has access to the highest standards in every setting, their own home, a care home or hospital.

“The first allocation of £700,000 for Motor Neurone Disease specialist nursing will be sufficient to fund all MND specialist nurses working in the NHS from the public purse, and to double their number. MND support has been championed by many, not least by Gordon Aikman and his inspiring campaign to raise awareness of the condition.

“We have a hugely committed and professional workforce within our National Health Service and with the continued support and hard work of everyone involved, I am confident that we can continue to improve care and provide better support for people living with MND.”

MND patient and campaigner Gordon Aikman said: “I am delighted. This will transform the lives of Scottish MND patients, including me.

“Today, Scotland is leading the way with Motor Neurone Disease care. But now it is up to the UK parties to commit to double MND research funding so we can find a cure to this horrific disease.

“This is a victory for the thousands of supporters who demanded action through GordonsFightback.com, MSPs from across the political spectrum, and the First Minister who answered the call for change.”