Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament 26 February 2026 [Draft]
26 Feb 2026 · S6 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
General Question Time
Mark Scott Leadership for Life Award Programme (Funding)
I wish to add my total dismay at the situation that we find ourselves in. I share Paul O’Kane’s anger on the matter. The Government’s approach is, indeed, very short-sighted. The programme is a unique project that has been hugely beneficial to all the young people who have taken part over the years, from all backgrounds. It has a proven track record of success, and it has ensured that young people can take the better path. I would have thought that that is what the justice team hopes for for future generations. Surely, minister, a small amount of additional funding could be found to ensure that this excellent project can continue.
In the same item of business
1. Paul O’Kane (West Scotland) (Lab)
Lab
To ask the Scottish Government for what reason it has reportedly reduced the funding it provides to the Mark Scott leadership for life award programme for 20...
The Minister for Victims and Community Safety (Siobhian Brown)
SNP
Since 2012, the Scottish Government has provided £1.4 million to the Outward Bound Trust to help to deliver the Mark Scott leadership for life award. Althoug...
Paul O’Kane
Lab
That answer is simply not good enough. The Scottish Government has tried this before: it tried to cut funding for that vital work a few years ago, but it was...
Siobhian Brown
SNP
Apologies—I am not aware of any such correspondence that has come in. I have not seen it yet, but I will chase that up today.Funding pressures across the Sco...
The Presiding Officer (Alison Johnstone)
NPA
Let us hear the minister.
Siobhian Brown
SNP
We are in discussions with the programme to understand the impact, but we hope that funding can continue to be raised from other sources.
Annabelle Ewing (Cowdenbeath) (SNP)
SNP
I wish to add my total dismay at the situation that we find ourselves in. I share Paul O’Kane’s anger on the matter. The Government’s approach is, indeed, ve...
The Presiding Officer
NPA
Always speak through the chair.
Siobhian Brown
SNP
We are all aware of the great work that has been done by the Mark Scott leadership for life award programme. As I said to Mr O’Kane, we will continue to work...