People across the Cowdenbeath area are set to benefit from increased mental health support after the Cowdenbeath Area Committee members approved £25,000 in funding from its Anti-Poverty Budget to support local wellbeing projects.

The funding will help provide early intervention and preventative mental health support for residents experiencing low to moderate mental health challenges, helping people access support closer to home before issues reach crisis point.

As part of the funding package, £9,000 will support the delivery of the SPARK programme in partnership with ChangeMH. The pilot project will offer group-based support to help adults improve their wellbeing, build resilience, develop coping strategies and connect with local services. The remaining funding will be available to support additional mental health initiatives across the Cowdenbeath area.

The investment has been made through the Area Committee's Anti-Poverty Budget, recognising the strong links between poverty, social isolation and poor mental health.

Cllr Alex Campbell, Convener of the Cowdenbeath Area Committee, said:"Members of the Area Committee want local people and the services that support them to be a priority, and approving this funding demonstrates just how important mental health and wellbeing is to communities across our area.

"We know that many people are facing challenges that can affect their mental health, often alongside financial pressures and other difficulties. By investing in local support and early intervention, we're helping to ensure people can access the right help when they need it. These projects will help people build confidence, connect with others and access support before problems become more serious.

“By supporting projects such as SPARK and other community-based initiatives, we're investing in services that can make a real difference to residents' lives and strengthen support networks across the Cowdenbeath area."

The funding forms part of the committee's ongoing commitment to tackling poverty and supporting the health and wellbeing of local communities across the Cowdenbeath area.