Kilsyth and Viewpark and Bellshill Community Alcohol Partnerships crowned joint winners of CAP Scotland's "Partnership of the Year" Award

‍

Two Lanarkshire community partnerships have been commended for their work in tackling underage drinking.  Kilsyth and Viewpark and Bellshill Community Alcohol Partnerships have been jointly awarded the "CAP of the Year" award for Scotland.

‍

The partnerships were named CAP of the Year (Scotland) by Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP) at its annual awards ceremony in the Houses of Parliament on 02 April 2025.  CAP is a national organisation that sets up and supports local partnerships that aim to reduce alcohol harm in children and young people, improve their health and well-being and enhance their communities.

‍

Kilsyth CAP was commended for its highly successful Partnership Youth Engagement Event at Kilsyth Academy. This event, hailed as a "best practice" model, engaged over 50 young people through a mix of fun, extra-curricular activities and crucial educational sessions. Partners, including Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), NHS, and local charities, delivered interactive workshops on topics ranging from vaping and alcohol awareness to career opportunities and volunteering. The event’s success in reaching disengaged youth and fostering positive relationships with emergency services was particularly praised.

‍

“The Kilsyth CAP's event was a great example of how to engage young people in a meaningful way," said Kate Winstanley, Director of CAP. “Their innovative approach has not only had an impact on the local community but has also created a blueprint for other CAPs to follow.”

‍

Viewpark and Bellshill CAP’s award recognises its comprehensive, community-driven approach focusing on targeted testing of licensed premises, community litter picks involving local police and youth volunteers, and free mountain bike sessions for young people during school holidays. The CAP also delivered a substance misuse development day for local secondary schools, equipping teachers and campus police officers with vital knowledge on alcohol, vaping, and cannabis use.

‍

Katrina Murray MP for Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch commented: "This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of local partners in tackling underage drinking and supporting young people in our communities. Kilsyth Community Alcohol Partnership have set a fantastic example of what can be achieved through collaboration, education, and proactive community engagement.

‍

“This recognition exemplifies how their efforts are making a real difference in improving young people’s well-being and strengthening relationships between youth, emergency services, and the wider community.”

‍

“Viewpark and Bellshill CAP’s dedication to engaging with their community is great to see,” said Kate Winstanley. “Their diverse range of activities, from retailer engagement to youth diversionary programs, demonstrates a holistic approach to tackling the challenges faced by the community.”

‍

Both CAPs have demonstrated the power of collaborative action, bringing together a wide range of partners to create positive change. Their success has not only benefited their local communities but also served as a model for other CAPs across Scotland.

‍

The success of these two CAPs will be used to create further events in the North Lanarkshire area, and across Scotland.

‍

For media information, please contact: Samantha Patel, Communications Manager - sam@communityalcoholpartnerships.co.uk

‍