Grassroots projects across Scotland will be able to bid for a share of £500,000 to help build stronger communities, as part of plans set out in the Programme for Government.
The Community Cohesion Fund was launched last year to help local community initiatives to address shared challenges such as social isolation, the cost-of-living crisis, inclusion, employment and housing.
This year, the fund will be increased from £300,000 to £500,000.
Equalities Minister Simita Kumar visited the Big Hearts Community Trust in Edinburgh which was one of 38 beneficiaries of the Community Cohesion Fund in 2025-26.
She said: “The Programme for Government places a renewed focus on community cohesion, setting out practical actions to strengthen our collective response to shared challenges and build more resilient communities.
“Building on the success of last year’s launch in supporting the excellent work of local organisations like Big Hearts, we are increasing the Community Cohesion Fund to £500,000 this year. This will mean we can help even more grassroots initiatives that bring communities together, tackle division and promote inclusion.
“We will also establish a Ministerial Taskforce on Community Cohesion to identify priority areas for action and address emerging issues affecting communities.”
Craig Wilson, Chief Executive, Big Hearts Community Trust said: “The universal language of football allows us to bring together people from a wide range of backgrounds, and offer them opportunities to build positive connections in their local community. We were pleased to receive support from the Scottish Government and the STV Appeal Community Cohesion Fund to strengthen accessibility and inclusion across our support services here in Edinburgh.
“This funding enables our charity to host more football-based activities as a neutral entry point of engagement for isolated adults and young people, and extend the support to their families. We are committed to make their local football ground a trusted and friendly space where they are welcomed, feel listened to and supported.”
