Skint SNP to cut 10 jobs from party HQ to save money for Holyrood election

The Scottish National Party (SNP) is set to cut 10 jobs from its party headquarters in Edinburgh in a bid to save money for the upcoming Holyrood election. The decision was made by the National Executive Committee (NEC) during a meeting held earlier today. The move aims to reduce the staff numbers from 26 to 16, creating a more streamlined team to support the party’s campaign efforts.

According to a source, the staff reduction is necessary due to financial struggles within the party. The SNP has faced challenges in recent years, with a decline in membership numbers and a significant portion of income from membership fees needed to cover staff salaries. The party’s membership dropped from 125,000 in 2019 to 64,525 as of the latest count, impacting its financial resources for election campaigning.

SNP National Secretary Councillor Alex Kerr stated that the restructuring at the party headquarters is essential for building a modern and effective organisation to secure victories in future elections, including the upcoming 2026 Holyrood election. While the job cuts may result in some employees not continuing with the party, the move is aimed at safeguarding the party’s long-term finances and strengthening its ability to pursue independence for Scotland.

In response to the decision, interim CEO Carol Beattie expressed the party’s commitment to creating a more efficient and focused team to support its electoral efforts. The restructuring is seen as a strategic move to address the financial challenges faced by the SNP and enhance its readiness for future political campaigns.

The SNP’s decision to reduce staff numbers at its headquarters reflects a proactive approach to financial management and organisational efficiency in preparation for the upcoming elections. By prioritising financial sustainability and operational effectiveness, the party aims to strengthen its position and resources for pursuing its political objectives.

Insights and Summary:
The SNP’s move to cut 10 jobs from its party headquarters highlights the party’s proactive approach to addressing financial challenges and prioritising efficiency. The decision comes amid declining membership numbers and increased pressure on financial resources for election campaigning. By streamlining its team and focusing on long-term financial stability, the SNP aims to enhance its readiness for upcoming electoral battles, including the Holyrood election in 2026. This restructuring reflects a strategic effort to strengthen the party’s position and resources in pursuit of its political goals.