The Scottish government is asking organisations working across Scotland to put forward proposals to improve drug services and support consistent treatment standards, as part of the ongoing “national mission” to reduce Scotland’s drug death toll.

Bids are being invited across four separate funds - worth a total of £18m.

These are a £5mLocal Support Fund (previously referred to as a Communities Fund) to increase capacity in community and third sector organisations; a £5m Improvement Fund to improve outreach services, treatment, rehabilitation and aftercare, with dedicated support for women; a £3m Families and Children Fund to support children, young people and families affected by drug use; and a £5m Recovery Fund for additional residential rehabilitation capacity.

The money, which is part of a £250m initiative to tackle drug deaths over the next five years, is available to not-for-profit organisations working in the drugs sector, health and social care partnerships, alcohol and drug partnerships, third sector organisations and grassroots and community organisations.

Scotland’s Minister for Drugs Policy, Angela Constance says it’s about making sure people can get the help they need it where they are and when they need it:

“These four funds will support 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 their lives.

“We have said a national mission is needed to tackle the drug deaths emergency and this additional £250m over the next five years will improve and increase services for people affected by drug addiction.

“These funds make more resources available to community and third sector organisations and offer support to families affected by drug use.

“As I have said before, we are determined, as part of our national mission, to make sure that people can access whatever treatment is right for them in the right place at the right time.”

Read more:  Third sector promised part to play in drugs fight; Call for culture change in drug treatment services;  Prison pilot drugs scheme success during pandemic;

Sign up to our bulletin for key health & social care updates straight to your inbox.