More people helped by drug projects funded by Government cash, report finds

More people struggling with drug use have been helped by projects funded by the Scottish Government, a report has found.

The Government’s National Drugs Mission Funds awarded almost £13m in grants in 2024-25 – with the cash going to 225 community-based projects across the country.

A report on the impact of the funding added that these had supported 51,379 individuals over the course of the year, up from 33,613 in 2023-24.

It comes as the Scottish Government grapples with how best to tackle the nation’s drug problem, with the drugs death rate still the highest in Europe.

That is despite deaths from drug misuse in 2024 dropping by 13% to stand at 1,017.

The impact report on the National Drugs Mission Funds shows grants totalling £12,782,504 were made last year, with organisations which benefited providing “much-needed support to individuals, families, and communities impacted by drug use”.

The report added the organised provided “a diverse array of services, supporting people in crisis and at every stage of their recovery journey”.

As a result of these services, the report said 8,913 fewer people had developed problem drug use, and 29,091 people who take harmful drugs had their risks reduced.

There were also 25,934 people who received “high-quality treatment and recovery services”, it added.

Drugs policy minister Maree Todd said the funding is “enabling vital, community-led work that supports people affected by drug harm with care, compassion, and dignity”.

She added: “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.”

She thanked the Corra Foundation – which administers the funds on behalf of the Government – and also praised “every person and project involved”.

Todd said: “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: “This report recognises the vital work of these projects, the committed efforts to reduce drug harm and the challenges encountered in addressing the issue.”