Funds open for drugs services

Funds open for drugs services

Applications can be made for a share of £18 million.

Local MSP Angela Constance, in her capacity as Scotland’s Minister for Drug Policy has launched four new separate funds - worth a total of £18 million - to support improvements to drugs services.   Coming from the additional £250 million announced by the First Minister to tackle the drug deaths emergency over the next five years, applications are open to a range of not-for-profit organisations working in the drugs sector. Each scheme will run for five years, and multi-year funding will be available with grants awarded on a rolling basis.

The funds are:

·         a £5 million Local Support Fund (previously referred to as a Communities Fund) to increase capacity in community and third sector organisations

·         a £5 million Improvement Fund to improve outreach services, treatment, rehabilitation and aftercare, with dedicated support for women

·         a £3 million Families and Children Fund to support children, young people and families affected by drug use

·         a £5 million Recovery Fund for additional residential rehabilitation capacity 

 Angela Constance MSP said:

“These four new funds are now open to applications and will support front line, third sector and community organisations to expand and improve drugs services.  This £18 million investment will help more people into  treatment and support that is right for them.  

Funds are now available for smaller more local organisations to access much needed funds with minimal bureaucracy.   There is no closing date so  there is time for organisations to develop their ideas and help and advice for those wishing to make applications is also available.  Multi year funding will also provide longer term security to front line and community organisations.

These additional resources will help to expand and improve outreach, treatment, rehabilitation and aftercare services to reach and treat those in need.  There is also a renewed focus on providing  more support to children and families affected by drug use too.  

This funding will also help the development of consistent treatment standards around the country and ensure more people can get access to services that can reduce harm, provide treatment and ultimately save lives.

I would encourage organisations in West Lothian and across Scotland to apply for these new funds.  There is no closing date so 

Background

Info on how to apply can be found on the Scottish Government website or email drugsmissiondeliveryteam@gov.scot 

ENDS

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