People with learning disabilities in Scotland are being given fresh support to fulfil their potential through a major new investment.
Almost £1.6 million has been secured for projects designed to enhance equality and create more inclusive communities.
The Learning Disability Support Fund will operate for 30 months from October 2025.
In the first year of the fund £325 000 will be available, followed by £650 000 in each of the next two years.
The initial grants range from £75 000 to £250 000.
Among the worthy recipients is the charity get2gether which has been awarded £108 244.
The funding will help get2gether to arrange welcoming social activities for people with learning disabilities across Scotland.
Tom Arthur the Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing emphasised the government’s ambitions.
He said that the vision is for people with learning disabilities to live independent active and fulfilling lives.
He added that the funding will support education on accessing health services and developing safe relationships.
Arthur emphasised that the fund reflects the views of people with learning disabilities who were consulted during its design.
He also highlighted that the Scottish Government will collaborate closely with the third sector to ensure the funding has a genuine impact.
Mojca Becaj the director at get2gether described the award as transformative.
She explained that the grant will enable the charity to continue providing safe inclusive spaces.
These spaces allow members with learning disabilities to build friendships nurture confidence and even secure their first paid roles.
She said those everyday milestones can be life changing for many adults.
Becaj expressed deep gratitude for the recognition investment and continued opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Expert voices from within get2gether are already making their mark.
Natalie Kernaghan McCaughey an ambassador and paid staff member at the charity spoke of the value of lived experience.
She explained that her role is to help other members plan and host social events that foster real connections.
She emphasised the charity’s belief that everyone deserves love and friendship and how that drives their work.
Erica Judge the Director of Funds at Inspiring Scotland praised the fund’s ability to provide longer term stability.
She said it would allow charities like get2gether to plan with confidence over the next two and a half years.
Judge highlighted that people with learning disabilities were central not only to shaping the fund’s aims but also in choosing the organisations to receive awards.
This reflects a shift toward genuine partnership and empowerment in the sector.
The Learning Disability Support Fund aims to build a more inclusive society by supporting community organisations directly.
With nearly £1.6 million over two and a half years this investment will support vital work across Scotland.
From boosting social opportunities to improving access to health services and fostering new employment pathways this funding promises significant impact.
The spotlight is now on the organisations delivering real results and on the individuals whose lives will be enriched.
Their stories of independence confidence and connection will remind us all why equality matters so profoundly.
