CashBack for Communities

Investing in Scotland’s young people.

Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities programme tackles Scotland’s inequalities by raising the attainment, ambition and aspirations of disadvantaged young people.

CashBack for Communities is a unique Scottish Government programme which uses the funds recovered from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) to expand young people’s horizons and increase the opportunities they have to develop their interests and skills.

Inspiring Scotland is the CashBack for Communities Delivery Partner.

A fair, safe and resilient Scotland

CashBack for Communities supports the Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice, helping to build a fair, safe and resilient Scotland. The fund is aimed at young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system and the communities most affected by crime.

Since 2008,  £130 million has been committed to community initiatives to improve the quality of life of young people right across Scotland. Over 2.5 million activities and opportunities for young people have been delivered so far.

Phase 6 of CashBack of Communities runs from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2026 and will deliver a range of trauma-informed and person-centred services and activities for young people between the ages of 10-25 that:

• Support young people most at risk of being involved in antisocial behaviour, offending or reoffending towards or into positive destinations;
• Provide person-centred support for young people, parents and families
  impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences and trauma;
• Support young people to improve their health, mental health and
  wellbeing;
• Support people, families and communities most affected by crime.

In Phase 6, a total of 29 CashBack Partner organisations will deliver activities including diversionary youth work and longer term life-changing intervention projects – helping to turn young people’s lives around and provide them the opportunity of moving into employment, education or volunteering.

Find out more about the 29 CashBack Partner organisations .

Find out more

Read our Reports:

CashBack for Communities 2020-2021 Annual Impact Report

CashBack for Communities Evaluation 2020-2023  – Focus on COVID-19

CashBack has committed to projects which are active across all 32 of Scotland’s local authorities.  See our bespoke packs which outline the range of activities active in each area.

Local Authority Packs