Highlighting the impact of delays for breast reconstruction in Scotland

What’s the project about?

We’re producing a briefing for Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) to highlight the issues with long waits for breast reconstruction. People are currently facing long waits for reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer which was made worse due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

This is following our report on breast reconstruction in England. We want to share some case studies of people who are currently waiting for, or have waited a long time for breast reconstruction. This will help to show why our policy recommendations must be implemented in Scotland.

Who’s organising it?

Name of project lead: Kira McDiarmid

Job title: Policy and Public Affairs Lead Scotland

Organisation: Breast Cancer Now

Email address: Kira.McDiarmid@breastcancernow.org

Who can take part?

You can take part if you live in Scotland and if you

• are currently on a waiting list for breast reconstruction in Scotland
• PR experienced a long wait or delay for your reconstruction due to the pandemic. 

Please be aware that your case study will be used in a briefing that will be shared to Members of the Scottish Parliament, the Scottish Government.

Why do you want me to be involved? 

By sharing your story, you can help MSPs understand the true human impact of long waits for breast reconstruction surgery. You’ll help us highlight why it’s an issue that we urgently need to address.

What will you ask me to do?

You will be asked to speak to our case study lead online to share your experience to help shape the case study for the report. We’ll organise this at a time that works for you. 

If we host any events in Parliament on breast reconstruction, there might be an opportunity for you to attend and share your story in person, but you don't need to commit to this.

How do I get involved?

To get involved or to ask any questions, please email Kira.McDiarmid@breastcancernow.org

When’s the deadline?

14 April 2025