Supporting mental health and tackling loneliness
29 Dec 2025 11:59 AM
First Minister announces additional funding for community projects.
First Minister John Swinney has announced additional funding to help people with their mental health.
A further £3 million will be made available so people can get early help close to home to improve their wellbeing and tackle loneliness.
Since 2021, more than 6,100 grants have been awarded from the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults to projects, including those that deliver:
- support groups for people with long-term health conditions
- walking, cycling and fitness sessions to reduce stress
- arts and music programmes to build confidence and social connection
- befriending services for older adults and carers
The additional funding was announced by First Minister John Swinney ahead of a visit to the EATS Rosyth community hub and garden.
The First Minister said:
“I am pleased to announce a further £3 million from the Scottish Government for projects to help people with their mental health and wellbeing. This investment reflects our commitment to healthcare that delivers prevention and early intervention, supporting people before they reach crisis point and prioritising those who are most at risk.
“Local support for people who need a bit of extra help with their mental health is really important – projects close to home in familiar settings are often where people feel the safest and most comfortable. Offering that kind of support is particularly important at this time of year, which many find difficult. But the festive season also reminds us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and caring for one another.
“Getting outside and spending time in the fresh air can really improve our physical and mental wellbeing, and the Fund that I am announcing today has supported projects that support people to do exactly that. After seeing the new community hub, I am looking forward to visiting the EATS Rosyth garden to see how local people are benefitting from the chance to enjoy valuable time outdoors.”
Background
With the additional £3 million investment, total funding from the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults in 2025-2026 will be £18 million, and the total provided by the Fund since 2021 will be £84 million.
Eats Rosyth received support from the Fund in 2024-2025.