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Sport Relief
08/02/2012
Sport Relief has today announced a new grants programme to benefit some of the most disadvantaged people living in Scotland and also in the world’s poorest countries.
The Scottish Sport Relief Home and Away Programme is kick starting with a total of £5 million – £2.5 million raised through Sport Relief, matched by contributions of £1.25 million each from the Scottish Government’s Health portfolio and International Development Fund.
World champion cyclist Graeme Obree today launched the programme during a visit to North United Communities in Glasgow - an example of the type of project that could benefit from the 50 per cent that will be spent in Scotland. The project supports young people and steers them away from under-age drinking by giving them a chance to take part in positive activities and encouraging them to make healthy lifestyle choices.
Shona Robison, Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, said:
“The Scottish Government is determined to deliver a real legacy from major events coming to Scotland and this programme will help people who are active at home in Scotland and overseas in the fight against poverty and inequality.
“I am very pleased that the Scottish Government is the first contributor to the Sport Relief programme which demonstrates our commitment to tackle deprivation not only on home soil but in some of the world’s poorest countries.”
Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, said:
“In difficult economic times, working in partnership with the developing world to alleviate poverty is more important than ever, and that is why I am so delighted that we are working with Sport Relief on this programme which highlights our joint determination to fight deprivation both at home and abroad.
“In recognition of Scotland’s special link with Malawi, as well as the Sub Saharan African and South Asian countries targeted through our existing international development programmes, Sport Relief will make grants to organisations working on the ground in these and other Commonwealth countries, making a real difference to some of the world’s most vulnerable people.”