Delivering a revolution in cancer care
- Written by: Hannah Buckingham — Macmillan Cancer Support — Senior External Affairs Adviser
- Published: 30th March 2026
Cancer care in Scotland is at a critical moment. Macmillan is calling for urgent action ahead of the parliamentary elections in May
As Scotland heads to the polls on 7th May, cancer care is at a critical moment. We are three years into a ten-year cancer strategy but have seen little change and even less delivery.
Who you are and where you live heavily influences your experience of cancer in Scotland. Too many people are still waiting too long for diagnosis and treatment and struggle to get the support they need, when and where they need it. The system is at crisis point and the pressures are growing.
The people of Scotland deserve better.
The next Scottish Government must take urgent action to deliver on the Cancer Strategy. They must be bolder and move faster to ensure everyone can access the best treatment and care.
Ahead of this crucial election Macmillan Cancer Support is calling for:
- Bold action to tackle inequities in cancer care – clear, measurable commitments to go further and faster than ever before.
- Clear steps to address unwarranted variation in treatment and care – so everyone can access the best care available.
- A revolution in cancer data and digital infrastructure – to build a health and care system that is more equitable and responsive to people’s experiences.
- Renewed commitment to delivering person-centred care – with access to emotional, physical and practical support wherever it’s needed.
We’ve heard from people living with cancer from across Scotland about the challenges they faced in accessing the support they needed, and the all too often fragmented and delayed care and treatment.
Carrol from Larbert experienced weeks of delays in her cancer treatment, leaving her feeling overwhelmed and unable to advocate for herself. It was only after contact Macmillan’s helpline that she regained her confidence and voice. Reflecting on her experience, Carrol believes no one should have to fight for basic standards of care, and that better communication and meeting cancer waiting times targets are vital to improve outcomes for people with cancer in Scotland.
You can read our manifest on our website and join our campaigners network here – Scottish Parliament Elections 2026 | Macmillan Cancer Support
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