The health board has been moved to Stage 4 of the NHS Scotland Support and Intervention Framework, the second formal stage of escalation required when tailored support is not producing the required improvements.

A Scottish Government-led Assurance Board will strengthen measures already in place and support the new leadership team to ensure appropriate financial governance, as well as assist with longer-term planning and improvement.

Health secretary, Neil Gray, said: ‘Getting finances back on track is essential for patients and staff alike – it means NHS Ayrshire and Arran can plan effectively for the future and continue investing in the services local people rely on.

‘The 2026-27 draft Scottish Budget provides record funding for health boards, including a real terms uplift of 1.8%. NHS Ayrshire and Arran will receive nearly £1.1bn in 2026-27, which equates to increased investment of £88.2m since 2025-26.

‘Escalation to Stage 4 brings enhanced scrutiny and dedicated support from the Scottish Government. I have confidence in interim chief executive Gordon James and his leadership team, and we will work closely with them over the coming months to return the health board to a sustainable financial footing.'

In November 2025, Audit Scotland published a Section 22 report regarding NHS Ayrshire and Arran's financial position, concluding ‘the severity of the financial challenge facing NHS Ayrshire and Arran is unprecedented'.