
Ayr MSP urges local organisations to apply for CashBack for communities funding
An MSP, in her capacity as Minister for Victims and Community Safety, has announced £26m of funding available through the CashBack for Communities programme.
SNP politician Siobhian Brown is encouraging organisations across South Ayrshire to apply for a share of the cash available through the next round of the Scottish Government initiative, which channels money recovered from criminal activity into community projects, will support initiatives working with young people at risk of involvement in crime or antisocial behaviour.
Funding will be awarded for the period 2026 to 2029, with applications opening on June 12 this year.
Projects eligible for support will work with young people aged 10 to 25, offering a wide range of activities, including access to trusted adults, skill-building opportunities, and pathways into education, employment, or volunteering.
Since its inception in 2008, the CashBack programme has invested £156m and supported around 1.4 million young people across all 32 local authority areas in Scotland.
Ms Brown said: "I'm pleased to announce this funding. CashBack for Communities transforms the proceeds of crime into opportunities, helping young people develop skills, build confidence and stay on a positive path.
"Over the next three years, we're making £26 million available to organisations delivering vital work with children and young people. I urge local groups in my constituency and across Scotland to apply. This is a chance to make a lasting difference and help young people thrive."
The programme is a key part of the Scottish Government's Vision for Justice and supports efforts to build safer, fairer communities.
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[Further reading: Britain's decline is as much intellectual as political] Related