Scottish Government draft Budget published with uplifts for Scottish sport

Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Finance Shona Robison MSP presented the draft Scottish Budget 2026/27 and the Scottish Spending Review to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday 13th January. While the Budget Bill is yet to be approved, it is expected to pass at the vote later this month.

The sportscotland budget sees an increase from £36.6m in 2025/26 to £54.6m in 2026/27, which is set to be a recurring uplift. The additional funding will be targeted towards several key themes, specifically: supporting the sustainability of Scottish governing bodies of sport, including through supporting workforce investment; club and community sport, including improving inclusivity and accessibility of clubs and supporting club growth; Commonwealth Games and pathway support. There will also be funding allocated in support of local partners, including Local Authorities/leisure trusts.

The Healthy, Active Lives budget, which is managed by the Active Scotland division of Government, sees an increase from £4.9m to £27m. £20m is allocated to support ‘summer of sport’ activities, including providing opportunities for young people to participate and engage in free sporting opportunities in 2026, as well as the commitment to primary school swimming lessons.

Find out more here.