Scottish government adds £1.6 million to Learning Disability Support Fund

A £1.6 million Learning Disability Support Fund is available to third sector organisations in Scotland to help them promote equality and inclusion and improve access to health services and social activities for people with learning disabilities.

The Scottish Government fund replaces the Inspiring Inclusion Learning Disability Fund, and organisations can apply for grants of between £75,000 and £250.000.

It will run for 30 months from October 2025, with a total of £325,000 available for the first year and £650,000 per year for the following two years.

Minister for Wellbeing, Social Care and Sport Maree Todd said: “The last 30 years have seen enormous changes in how people with learning disabilities are supported in society, however we recognise there is more work to be done.

“We know the third sector plays a crucial role in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities and this fund will support organisations to enable those they work with to lead fulfilling, independent, and active lives as equal citizens. The grants will be used to provide people with education and information on matters such as accessing health services and developing safe relationships.”

Learning Disability Support Fund aims to make a difference

The Scottish Government says it has taken into account the views expressed by people with learning disabilities in recent consultation and research, and it will work closely with the third sector to ensure it makes a difference.

Celia Tennant, Chief Executive Officer at Inspiring Scotland, added: “We are pleased to be managing the application process for the new phase of the Scottish Government’s Learning Disability Support Fund.

“We know from the past few years managing the Inspiring Inclusion fund the positive impact that empowering third sector organisations can have to deliver support for people in Scotland with learning disabilities to lead happy, healthy lives and create a more inclusive society.”

To apply for this funding, you must be a Scottish not-for-profit organisation. The closing date for applications is 11.59 am on Wednesday, 26 February 2025.

Alison Bloomer

Alison Bloomer is Editor of Learning Disability Today. She has over 25 years of experience writing for medical journals and trade publications. Subjects include healthcare, pharmaceuticals, disability, insurance, stock market and emerging technologies. She is also a mother to a gorgeous 13-year-old boy who has a learning disability.

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