Ukrainians in Scotland to receive free healthcare and access to social security benefits

Ukrainians who have fled to Scotland amid the war with Russia will be able to access NHS services for free.

The amendment to current legislation will ensure they will be able to access services such as maternity care, mental health support and treatment for specific conditions at no charge.

This will also apply to Ukrainians who were in Scotland on short-term visas when the conflict began and who apply to extend or switch visas because they cannot return home.

Anyone in Scotland, regardless of their nationality, residence status or length of time they will be in the country, is already entitled to receive emergency treatment at an A&E department.

They can also register with a GP practice to receive general medical services, at no charge.

The Scottish Government confirmed the amendment to current legislation on Friday.

Health secretary Humza Yousaf said: “We are determined to do everything in our power to give displaced people from Ukraine the warmest welcome possible when they arrive and this includes offering healthcare to those who need it.

“We fully recognise that they may have been through very traumatic experiences and could require specialist treatment and care.”

In addition, emergency legislation which came into force on Tuesday will allow people coming to Scotland from Ukraine to meet residency conditions for Scottish social security benefits.

This means that those fleeing the war, and who are eligible, will have immediate access to benefits such as the Scottish Child Payment and Child Disability Payment.

Yousaf added: “Removing charges for healthcare and providing access to benefits is a practical step in ensuring those who have been forced to flee their homes and country can live safely and comfortably in Scotland for as long as they need to.”