Diabetes Scotland has launched its 2026 election manifesto: ‘Care, Consistency, Choice’, setting out five key asks of the next Scottish Government.
Diabetes touches lives in every community across Scotland and for people living with the condition, diabetes is more than a diagnosis; it can be a complex part of everyday life.
More than 360,000 people – around 6.7% of Scotland’s population – are now living with diabetes, and NHS spending on diabetes is estimated at £875 million a year. Without decisive action on prevention, access and outcomes, this is projected to rise to £1.5 billion by 2035.
In Scotland, where you live can still determine the care you receive, the technology you can access, and the support available to you.
Those in disadvantaged communities are less likely to receive all of their vital diabetes health checks and are more likely to face difficulty accessing care and support. This inequality is not inevitable - with the right priorities, diabetes care in Scotland can be fair, consistent and future-proofed.
Working closely with people affected by diabetes across Scotland, we see and hear first-hand the challenges faced by people with diabetes every day, as well as opportunities for meaningful and lasting change.
Our manifesto sets out a clear way forward to improve the care and support available to people with diabetes and those at risk of developing it in the future, ultimately leading to better experiences and outcomes for everyone.
Diabetes Scotland’s five urgent asks of the next Scottish Government are:
- End the postcode lottery of care by introducing national minimum standards for diabetes reviews, structured education and technology, supported by improved national data to tackle variation and inequality.
- Make diabetes care more connected by creating coordinated, person-centred pathways linking primary, secondary and community services, and embedding timely mental health and peer support
- Deliver equitable access to diabetes technology through continued investment, consistent eligibility and high-quality education
- Put people at the centre of care through shared decision-making, timely access to appointments and information, and meaningful involvement in service design.
- Invest now for the future by expanding prevention, strengthening the diabetes workforce and scaling professional training to help reduce complications and long-term NHS costs.
Jenn Hall, National Director at Diabetes Scotland, said:
“Diabetes treatment shouldn’t be determined by your postcode. With clear national standards, connected pathways and equitable access to technology and support, Scotland can deliver the care people deserve - care that is compassionate, consistent and offers genuine choice. Investing now will prevent harm, improve quality of life for those living with diabetes and future-proof the NHS.”
