SOUTH AYRSHIRE BEFRIENDING PROJECT

That this House congratulates the South Ayrshire Befriending Project on securing a grant of £150,000 from the Big Lottery Fund Scotland; welcomes the valuable work the Project undertakes with disadvantaged young people in South Ayrshire who have limited adult support at home and are affected by issues including poverty, drugs, alcohol or mental health; notes that the much-needed funding will help establish 45 to 55 befriending matches per year, which can last from six months to two years; offers its support for the continuing success of the Project; and recognises the importance of local initiatives that work towards tackling social problems and supporting young people to build better futures for themselves.