The Deputy First Minister has announced an additional £15 million for community mental health initiatives in 2027/28, saying it will help fund “creative ways to support better mental health locally”.
The money comes on top of the £99 million the Scottish Government has already invested in the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for adults over the last five years.
Launched in 2021, the fund helps grassroots organisations support people closer to home and at the earliest possible opportunity.
Jenny Gilruth made the announcement during a visit to Lucky Ewe Farm near Cupar, Fife, which provides outdoor placements and volunteering opportunities to support mental health and wellbeing.
She said: “This investment reflects our commitment to healthcare focused on prevention and early intervention, supporting people before they reach crisis point and prioritising those who are most at risk.
“This earlier notification of funding will provide security and stability for our third sector partners, helping them to better plan for the future and make the most of their resources.
“This Government money is really targeted to those most in need, working with third sector groups, just like we’ve seen today, to help think about creative ways to support better mental health locally that are maybe not the traditional ones we would associate with a medical approach but actually have an impact in terms of people’s wellbeing and their ability to contribute to society.”
Lucky Ewe chairwoman Joan Brown welcomed the announcement, saying: “Lucky Ewe trustees, farm volunteers and supporters are delighted to hear of this funding initiative by the Sottish Government.
“It will help us plan better for the future of our Fife-wide project and give greater stability to our staff.”