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Chamber and committees

Marking World Diabetes Day 2025 and Supporting the Strike Out Stigma Campaign

  • Submitted by: Emma Harper, South Scotland, Scottish National Party.
  • Date lodged: Monday, 10 November 2025
  • Motion type: Standard Motion
  • Motion reference: S6M-19635

That the Parliament acknowledges that World Diabetes Day will be observed on 14 November 2025, as part of a global effort to raise awareness of diabetes and its profound impact on people, families and communities across Scotland and beyond; recognises that diabetes is a complex and often misunderstood condition, which affects over 340,000 in Scotland, with many more at risk; notes with concern that recent findings suggest that 8 in 10 people living with diabetes report experiencing stigma, negative attitudes or discrimination due to their condition; understands that such stigma can lead to feelings of shame, isolation and reluctance to seek support or disclose their diagnosis, ultimately undermining health outcomes and wellbeing; notes that the theme of this year’s World Diabetes Day is, Strike Out Stigma, and it will have a campaign aimed at challenging harmful stereotypes, correcting misconceptions and fostering a more compassionate and informed public understanding of diabetes in all its forms; supports the campaign’s call to action to empower people living with, or at risk of, diabetes to live well, feel supported and be treated with dignity and respect in all areas of life; commends the vital work of Diabetes Scotland in leading advocacy, education and peer support initiatives; recognises the continued dedication of NHS Scotland and healthcare professionals in delivering high-quality care, promoting early diagnosis and advancing prevention strategies, and encourages MSPs, public bodies, employers and communities across Scotland to engage with World Diabetes Day activities and to take meaningful steps to eliminate stigma, improve understanding and ensure that everyone affected by diabetes receives the support and respect that they deserve.


Supported by: Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Annabelle Ewing, Kenneth Gibson, Dr Sandesh Gulhane (Registered interest) , Jamie Hepburn, Bill Kidd, John Mason, Liam McArthur, Paul McLennan, Stuart McMillan, Marie McNair, Pauline McNeill, Carol Mochan, Audrey Nicoll, Alexander Stewart, Kevin Stewart, Brian Whittle