The Gloucestershire County Council Cabinet met at Shire Hall in Gloucester on 20 May 2026 to approve two major funding initiatives aimed at adult education and substance misuse support services.
During the session, Cabinet members confirmed a funding agreement to receive over £2.7 million from the Department for Education. This money will support the Tailored Learning and Adult Skills Programme for the 2026-2027 academic year. Cllr Linda Cohen, the Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, proposed the plan to help residents access adult learning opportunities.
In a separate decision, the Cabinet approved £5.9 million in government funding to be used for substance use services between 2026 and 2029. This funding will allow the council to modify its existing contract with Via Care Ltd, which provides drug and alcohol support across the county. The update includes adding specialist nursing and recovery worker roles specifically to assist rough sleepers.
Additional portions of this health funding will be directed toward specific community needs. This includes £162,440 to help the council’s Youth Support Service expand its reach for young people, and £495,751 to support those with substance use disorders in finding and keeping work through the council’s employment hub.
These initiatives were proposed by Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, the Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities & Fire. Residents were able to follow the proceedings of the meeting live through the Public-i webcasting service.
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