Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan has welcomed the award of over £108,000 to Branchton Community Centre Association of funding seized from criminals as part of the Scottish Government’s innovative Cashback for Communities scheme.
CashBack for Communities is a Scottish Government programme which takes funds recovered from the proceeds of crime and invests them into free activities and programmes for young people across Scotland
The scheme will see almost £2 million given to community groups across Scotland to help young people in disadvantaged areas.
The Branchton Community Centre provides valuable services for people in the local community, from toddlers to the elderly. The Community centre holds various classes such as guitar and dance lessons, as well as sewing skills classes and homework clubs. The centre has links to other organisations that can provide information and services also.
Commenting, Stuart McMillan MSP said:
“Cashback for Communities is a unique programme that seizes money from criminals and reinvests it back into communities Inverclyde.
“As well as punishing those who break the law and peddle misery on Scottish society, Cashback offers activities and opportunities at community level to stop disadvantaged young people heading into crime or anti-social activity themselves.
“Community groups in Inverclyde already had the benefit of over £800,000 from Cashback for Communities with over 30,000 young people benefiting from this funding and is privileged to have so many wonderful community groups working so hard to improve our communities.
“This funding will support the Branchton community and beyond – a valuable investment in our young people.
“The Scottish Government remains committed to tackling inequality and by keeping young people engaged and active in their communities, we can help them become both confident and responsible individuals.
“Cashback is essential to helping us achieving this goal which is why I am proud to continue to support its valuable work.”
Stuart McMillan MSP 