SNP Budget invests in NHS and cost of Living support

Announced by Scotland’s Finance Secretary Shona Robison in Holyrood, the SNP Scottish Budget for 2026–27 makes clear choices to back our NHS and help families with the cost of living. At a time of tight finances, this Budget delivers record investment in frontline health services – £17.6 billion for NHS boards and £2.4 billion for GPs, primary care and community services – alongside new walk-in GP centres to improve access and ease pressure on hospitals.

It also expands the strongest cost-of-living support anywhere in the UK. That includes a £40 per week payment for families with children under one, breakfast clubs in every primary and special school, and a free Summer of Sport with a universal learn-to-swim offer for all primary pupils

Crucially, this Budget is funded through fair, progressive tax choices. Most Scots will pay less income tax than they would elsewhere in the UK, while those with the broadest shoulders contribute more, including higher council tax bands for properties worth over £1 million.

Scotland’s more progressive taxation raises an additional £1.8 billion for public services, ensuring that Social Contract which delivers free bus travel for under-22s and over-60s, free prescriptions and eye tests, and Scotland’s commitment to free university tuition.

Alongside major investment in education, housing and local government, and targeted action to tackle child poverty, this is a Budget that protects public services, supports households, and reflects Scotland’s values.