Local Improvement
Fund (HADP)
The Highland Alcohol & Drugs Partnership (Highland ADP) has awarded Scottish Government funds for third sector organisations in Highland. We are offering grants of up to £10,000 maximum to be spent from April 2027, on building organisational capacity and promoting resilience in the sector.
​
Investment in community-led approaches has enabled increased participation in local services and facilitated effective collaboration between providers, and we are delighted with the impact this has had on communities affected by alcohol and drug harms.
​
However, we recognise the very real pressures organisations currently face around financial uncertainty, capacity and staff wellbeing. In addition, the amount available this year is reduced to £58,500.
​
Applications are now open.
Applications open Thursday 22 October 2026.
Applications must be received no later than MIDDAY Thursday 26 November 2026.
Local Improvement Fund Impact Report 2022–2025​
We’re proud to share the Local Improvement Fund Impact Report 2022–2025, highlighting over £666,500 invested in community‑led projects across the Highlands by the Highland Alcohol & Drugs Partnership.
​
From mental health support and family wellbeing to recovery services and creative community initiatives, this report showcases a small portion of the real difference made by local organisations, volunteers, and people with lived experience.
​
Discover powerful stories, meaningful outcomes, and the impact of collaboration across our region.
Organisations supporting the Highland ADP strategic priorities can apply for grants of up to £10,000 maximum.
​
We are inviting applications for:
-
Support with leadership and governance
-
Support with financial plans, systems and infrastructure
-
Helping organisations develop and plan for the future
-
Supporting staff and volunteer wellbeing, especially in high-pressure or trauma-informed settings
Previous grant recipients may apply to strengthen capacity, and new organisations are welcome to apply, but you must be supporting the Highland ADP strategic priorities.
​
Please note, to ensure best value and fair allocation of a limited amount, we reserve the right to award reduced amounts. The majority of grants are likely to be no more than £5,000 due to limited funds. Applications for over this amount must have a strong rationale for exceptional circumstances.
​
As a charity ourselves, we understand the need to invest in central functions and strategic work to build organisational resilience and be prepared for future challenges. Funding this type of work can be difficult though, and many people have told us that this is what their organisation currently needs.
The focus of the Fund is on helping organisations build their capacity, focus on strengthening governance, systems and infrastructure, to develop robust plans and sustain staff and volunteer wellbeing for the future.
​
Previous grant recipients have the opportunity to step back from day-to-day delivery, take a holistic look at strengths and weaknesses and enhance strategic and operational practices to improve long-term sustainability.
​
This fund is aimed at organisations who could start this work by
April 2027.
We would anticipate the proposed activity would be concluded within
12 months.
HADP Strategic Priorities 2025-2030
Prevent, delay onset, and reduce problem alcohol and drug use.
Prevention and Early Intervention
Access to quality alcohol and drugs support and care services
Improve access to and benefits from effective, integrated,
person-centred, quality, and recovery-orientated systems of care.
Harm Reduction
Reduce harm and risk experienced by people using alcohol and drugs by increasing availability and access to
harm reduction approaches.
Whole system support
and innovation
Make better use of the whole system to meet the needs of people with problem alcohol and drug use.
Supporting the workforce
Develop a resilient, skilled, trauma-informed workforce that work in trauma-informed places.
Effective engagement, delivery and governance
Ensure effective engagement, governance
and reporting arrangements