Scotland's Alcohol and Drug Policy Minister visits DLS grant funded organisation

The Digital Lifelines Scotland programme provides grant funding to organisations who work with people at risk of drug related harm, which provides learning and insights for our work, and,  most importantly, supports the immediate work for people to be digitally included. The fantastic team at Recovery Enterprises Scotland, one of our grant funded organisations, welcomed the programme team and Elena Whitham, Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, to their Foundations Hub at HMP Kilmarnock in November 2023 to see and hear about their work.

In June 2023 Recovery Enterprises Scotland successfully opened their new Foundations Hub, Visitors Centre at HMP Kilmarnock, which aims to to create a supportive and inclusive environment for people in custody and their families. The centre is designed to be a safe and welcoming space for people visiting the prison, where they can access various services and connect with others who may be going through a similar experience. Staff are committed to promoting resilience, healing, and personal growth.

During the visit, Lorna Dalziel, Director at Recovery Enterprises Scotland, spoke about the profound impact of the Digital Lifelines Scotland funding and the transformative effect it has had on our prison and community-based services. 

"This funding has been nothing short of a lifeline, enabling us to extend our reach and deepen our impact in ways we as an organisation never imagined. Our community and prison-based services have seen a remarkable transformation thanks to the support received. We have been able to bridge the gap between prison and community support seamlessly. Being able to provide people leaving custody with digital equipment has allowed us to facilitate a smoother transition from prison to community, providing easier access to online benefits accounts and supports, access to medical issues, allowing people to maintain contact with family and friends as well as attending support meetings if required. This support also extends to those leaving hospitals and experiencing homelessness. This accessibility has been a game-changer for many individuals in need, bridging gaps and breaking down barriers that hindered their journeys."