- Funding enables more people to access support.
More people impacted by drugs have received support after the
Scottish Government funded 225 community-based projects across
the country.
The National Drugs Mission Funds distributed almost £13 million
in grants in 2024-25 through the Corra Foundation. In 2024-25,
there were more than 51,000 interactions with support services,
an increase from 33,613 the previous year thanks to
sustained funding.
The multi-year funding helps people in crisis and provides
continued support throughout their recovery, including access to
medication assisted treatment and residential rehabilitation.
Drugs Policy Minister said:
“These funds are enabling vital, community-led work that supports
people affected by drug harm with care, compassion, and dignity.
The projects are focused on a wide range of areas, including
recovery, mental health, reducing stigma and supporting young
people.
“This report highlights the progress and impact of these projects
and the types of support provided directly to people, their
families and communities impacted by drugs. I have been
especially struck by the creativity, resilience and partnership
shown by organisations delivering support which is rooted
locally, with more than 51,000 interactions this past year.
“I'm proud to continue the work of those who came before me, and
to be part of a mission that is turning hope into action. My
sincere thanks go to Corra, and to every person and project
involved - these efforts are saving lives and helping to build a
Scotland where recovery is real and support is always within
reach.”
Corra Foundation Chief Executive Carolyn Sawers
said:
“Corra is honoured to work in partnership with organisations that
are making a meaningful difference to the lives of people
affected by drug use in Scotland. This report recognises the
vital work of these projects, the committed efforts to reduce
drug harm and the challenges encountered in addressing the issue.
It makes clear the importance of access to multi-year funding to
provide security for organisations to sustain their work.”
Background
The funds support a wide range of work including caring for
wounds caused by injections, reaching people who have disengaged
from community support and helping prisoners or offenders
rehabilitate back into the community.
Other funded projects refer for access to medication in
Edinburgh, such as opioid replacement therapy, or residential
rehabilitation in areas such as Dundee and Inverclyde.
