![](https://emergencyservicestimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ESS-Button-resized.png")
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is set to receive £436m under the draft Scottish Budget for 2026–27, as part of a wider package of funding for emergency services announced by the Scottish Government.
The allocation represents an uplift on the previous year’s settlement and includes increased capital funding intended to support investment in fire stations, fleet, equipment and digital infrastructure. Ministers have framed the funding as part of their commitment to maintaining frontline public services amid continued financial pressures.
Responding to the draft budget, SFRS Chief Officer Stuart Stevens welcomed the additional investment but warned that longstanding financial challenges remain.
“While we welcome additional investment for our Service, our capital backlog and increasing running costs remain a significant challenge for our organisation,” he said. “We will now take time to fully analyse and consider the details and begin planning for the next financial year. However, we will continue to deliver a reliable, effective service as we work to keep the people of Scotland safe.”
However, the funding package has drawn criticism from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), which argues the settlement falls short of what is needed to restore operational resilience across Scotland.
FBU general secretary Steve Wright said the budget had “once again, failed to provide the funding that the fire and rescue service desperately needs,” pointing to significant workforce and infrastructure pressures. He highlighted the loss of more than 1,250 firefighter posts since 2013, alongside ageing fire stations and reductions in fire engines, warning that some communities are now living without adequate fire cover.
“The fire and rescue service is on its knees,” he said. “Firefighters are stretched beyond limits, and communities are paying the price.”
The draft budget will now be scrutinised by MSPs in the coming weeks before final approval, with emergency services funding expected to remain a key focus of parliamentary debate.
To read similar articles, check out our Leadership channel
