Stevenson Welcomes Decision to Double Specialist MND Nurses

Stewart Stevenson, SNP MSP for Banffshire & Buchan Coast, has welcomed the announcement today (Wednesday) that the number of specialist NHS nurses working for patients with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in Scotland is set to double.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that an extra £2.5 million will be invested in specialist nursing and care, with the first allocation of £700,000 going towards nursing care and support for those with MND.

Mr Stevenson said:

“I am delighted at the announcement that NHS nurses working with MND patients are set to double. This will transform lives across Scotland - ensuring that people with MND receive the specialist nursing care they need – and will make a significant difference. It is a landmark decision that recognises the vital role that specialist nurses play in patient care.”

As part of the £2.5 million package of investment in improving specialist nursing provision, the number of specialist MND nurses in Scotland will increase from seven to fourteen to provide greater support to people with the condition.

The announcement has been welcomed by UK charity the MND Association and also by MND Scotland.

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