Meeting of the Parliament 05 February 2026 [Draft]
Well, that is now on the record, so it must be true.
I appreciate that I am over my allotted time, but I will make some brief final comments. In recognition of the importance of the volunteer-led efforts that I have described, the Scottish Government is continuing to invest in inclusive volunteering through the volunteering support fund, in which £2.2 million is being invested between 2025 and 2027. The fund helps organisations to recruit additional volunteers for volunteering projects, and it focuses particularly on supporting individuals who face barriers to volunteering, such as those from black and minority ethnic communities, disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. By prioritising diversity, the fund aims to broaden the volunteer base in the sector.
Projects that have been funded in the area include Camglen Radio, a 24/7 community radio station that serves Cambuslang and Rutherglen, with the core aim of addressing inequality, promoting inclusion and improving wellbeing by giving local people a voice. The project includes targeted outreach sessions to engage underrepresented groups in the area.
Another VSF grant will help Project 31 to support people living in Cambuslang and Rutherglen, particularly children, families, parents, carers and older people. The project delivers a significant amount of outdoor activity that is free at the point of contact, which ensures that people are not prevented from participating by the impact of poverty.
I congratulate Clare Haughey on securing the debate and Rutherglen on its 900th anniversary celebrations, and I pay particular tribute to the community of volunteers who have made it all happen.