Scottish Health Boards are set to undergo a major reorganisation, with the total number reduced from 14 to two.

In his flagship Programme for Government for 2026–2031, First Minister John Swinney confirmed plans to replace Scotland’s 14 mainland health boards with two strategic health boards, claiming the move will free up capacity and resources for direct patient care. Separate arrangements are being considered for the island regions of Shetland, Orkney, and the Western Isles.

The First Minister commented: “This ambitious Programme for Government has radical and widespread public service reform at its heart to deliver real, lasting improvements to people’s lives.”

However, James O’Connell, regional coordinator at Unite the Union, said: “Culling health boards does not resolve the need to invest in health and care services. We have seen a repeated failure to invest in health and social care workers who provide essential services.”

Alongside the major overhaul of health services, the programme includes key measures to tackle child poverty, with the government planning to roll out national breakfast clubs, expand childcare support, and increase the Scottish Child Payment. It also sets out targeted improvements for public transport and social care.

Swinney added: “By rewiring a system of services designed for the last century, we will simplify and reshape organisations on which everyone relies and ensure every pound of investment achieves maximum impact.”