Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 21 September 2026
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of its commitment in the 2026-2031 Programme for Government to improve cancer care by increasing the number of radiographers, how many additional radiographers will be recruited in each year of the current parliamentary session and how much additional funding will be allocated for that purpose.
Radiographers have an integral role in delivering cancer care. The number of qualified radiographers has increased by 3.5% in the last year, and 14.5% over the last five years. We recognise, however, that there are currently 141.8 WTE qualified radiography vacancies across Scotland.
The Scottish Government will work with NHS Boards and other partners in understanding where and how to increase the number of radiographers. Radiographers are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of conditions, including cancer.
While the Scottish Government sets the strategic policy direction for the NHS in Scotland, operational matters including the funding and location of staffing are the responsibility of NHS Boards. We expect NHS boards to plan and provide safe, effective, and high-quality care, in line with their statutory service provision and workforce planning responsibilities. The Scottish Government has therefore not set targets for radiographer numbers year on year.
Scottish Government is providing record investment as set out in this year’s budget of almost £22.5 billion to health and social care in 2026-27.