Fund launched to help people recover from drugs and alcohol

Launching today (Friday 1 July), the Recovery Change Fund aims to help build more social connection and support recovery initiatives that will make a positive impact on individuals, families, and communities affected by alcohol and drug use, as part of Renfrewshire’s response to the Alcohol and Drugs Commission.

As part of the commission’s findings, people with lived or living experience of alcohol and drugs said that they needed more community-based support. Local groups and organisations also said that they had experienced difficulties accessing funding to expand and grow the support they provide local people.

Through the new fund, groups and organisations can apply for grants of up to £10,000. Funding can be used for expanding existing activities and piloting new projects or initiatives that support alcohol and drugs recovery as well as mental health, stigma and social isolation.

The £150,000 fund is part of the £2million Alcohol and Drugs Change Programme set up by Renfrewshire Council and local partners in response to the commission’s findings. Applications must be submitted by Friday 29 July and funding decisions will be made in September.

Depute Council Leader, Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, was the chair for the Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drugs Commission. She said: “Listening to the views of people with lived and living experience of drugs and alcohol has helped us determine the actions we need to take to help people in recovery as well as prevent and provide early intervention.

“The Recovery Change Fund is to help support our community and third sector groups and organisations who work with people affected by drugs and alcohol at the heart of their communities. We’ve seen throughout the pandemic just how vital these groups and organisations are and this fund should help them try out new initiatives or expand on existing ones.”

Karen McIntyre, Community and Partnership Manager for Engage Renfrewshire, said: “The Recovery Change Fund is a fantastic opportunity for local groups and organisations to support people in recovery within their own communities. We know the voluntary sector is responsive, creative, compassionate, and innovative. We also know that groups will use this funding to change people’s lives by enhancing their sense of belonging and community. I would encourage anyone with ideas, particularly around partnership working, to contact Engage Renfrewshire for further support.”

Visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/recovery-change-fund to apply.