Nicola Sturgeon: Funding will double MND nurses

Nicola Sturgeon called on the UK parties to show their committment also. Picture: Ian Rutherford

The move has been welcomed by campaigner and MND sufferer Gordon Aikman, who met the First Minister last year, and says it will “transform the lives” of Scots with the condition.

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Ms Sturgeon today announced the NHS is to begin funding the specialist nurses who care for motor neurone disease (MND) patients in Scotland, currently paid for through charity donations, and pledged to double their number.

Mr Aikman said: “Today, Scotland is leading the way with Motor Neurone Disease care. But now it is up to the UK parties to commit to double MND research funding so we can find a cure to this horrific disease.”

The funding is part of a £2.5 million package to be invested in specialist nursing and care, unveiled by Ms Sturgeon today.

She said: “MND support has been championed by many, not least by Gordon Aikman and his inspiring campaign to raise awareness of the condition.

“We have a hugely committed and professional workforce within our National Health Service and with the continued support and hard work of everyone involved, I am confident that we can continue to improve care and provide better support for people living with MND.”

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