The Scottish Conservatives have sparked controversy by stating that some individuals claiming benefits for mental health conditions, even with a formal diagnosis, may not require that financial support to live their lives. Party leader Russell Findlay asserted that Scotland's benefit system is currently "wide open to abuse."
Findlay's remarks on benefits and NHS funding
Speaking to the Press Association on Monday, Findlay outlined his party's priorities: "We would guarantee more funding for the NHS, but unlike the SNP who want to waste money on middle management and pen pushers, we would put all the focus on frontline services. More GPs, more nurses, more doctors in our hospitals, and that would include more money for mental health provision."
On the subject of benefits, he elaborated: "If someone has a genuine incapacity and requires a benefit to help live their lives, we want them to have that support. Nobody is saying otherwise. But right now, the system is wide open to abuse. You're getting people claiming for mental health conditions without a medical diagnosis, and in many cases, even with a diagnosis, they don't need that money to live their lives."
Findlay cited a specific case involving a high-profile SNP candidate, now former candidate, who was ordered to repay £20,000 in benefits to which they were not entitled.
Reaction from mental health professionals
His comments come as the chair of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland warned that the country is "failing some of its most unwell citizens." The Royal College's election manifesto calls on all parties to achieve parity between mental and physical health in terms of funding, access, and accountability.
Findlay clarified: "All we are saying on behalf of taxpayers is we want a fair and reasonable system that requires a mental health diagnosis before a benefit is paid out."
Campaign context
Findlay made these remarks while campaigning in Edinburgh alongside Edinburgh South Western candidate Sue Webber, in the final days before the Holyrood elections. The SNP has repeatedly stated that if they gain a majority, they will push for another independence referendum.
Findlay emphasised that the Scottish Conservatives will use the remaining campaign days to "defend Scotland's place in the Union." He said: "In the capital, like Scotland as a whole, regional list votes for the Scottish Conservatives were crucial to denying the SNP a majority in 2016 and 2021. The same applies in 2026. And it's more important than ever that people vote for us on that peach ballot, with John Swinney promising to push for another divisive referendum if he wins a majority. Only Scottish Conservative MSPs can be trusted to defend Scotland's place in the Union and stand up for common-sense policies, like a crackdown on dangerous e-bikes on our streets, which Sue Webber has championed."
SNP response
Alex Kerr, SNP candidate for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, responded: "Russell Findlay and the Tories have absolutely nothing positive to offer the people of Scotland, which is why they are just days away from a historic defeat. John Swinney's trusted and reliable leadership is focused on the priorities of the people of Scotland – our plan for the NHS is working, and we will support people with the cost of living by putting in place a cap on the cost of essential food items, enhancing childcare support, and capping bus fares at £2. We are asking people to vote for a government to get things done – other parties are asking people to vote for opposition to stop things happening. It is only by backing an SNP majority on Thursday that voters can ensure they get a government that will always be on Scotland's side, will lock out Nigel Farage, and deliver the fresh start of independence."
