More funding for low-threshold measures in mental health and substance abuse care

“The area of mental health and substance abuse care is one of the Government’s most important priorities. The Government will offer accessible care for those who struggle with mental health and substance abuse disorders by ensuring targeted measures provided by non-profit organisations. This is why we wish to strengthen additional grant schemes in this area in 2023,” says Ingvild Kjerkol, Minister of Health and Care Services.

“Through the mental health escalation plan (in Norwegian) which will be presented this year, and the prevention and treatment reforms for the substance abuse field in early 2024, we plan to ensure better prevention and provide help and follow-up at an earlier stage,” says Kjerkol.

Counselling grants

The grant scheme Counselling, support and guidance services will be increased by NOK 25 million.

This grant scheme will primarily apply to non-profit organisations and municipalities that operate helpline or chat services for people who are experiencing difficulties related to mental health, substance abuse and violence. Other types of counselling, support or guidance services may also apply for grants.

“This will enable other organisations to apply for resources from the requested grant,” says Kjerkol.

When the Revised National Budget is approved, the Norwegian Directorate of Health will review all received applications. The Directorate will consider any complaints where the applicant fulfills the predetermined criteria and any complaints from applicants who have had their application partially granted. If, after this review, there are funds left over, a second call for applications may be considered.

Activity grants

The grant scheme for non-profit and volunteer organisations that operate activity services in the area of mental health and substance abuse will be increased by NOK 10 million.

“Many people with mental health or substance abuse problems do not participate in work or activities. By increasing the grant for activities, we will be contributing to more diverse activity services for our target groups,” says Kjerkol.

“Sport activities and social activities can offer people with substance abuse and/or mental health problems the chance to experience a sense of accomplishment, as well as opportunities for a more active and meaningful life.

Fontenehus Norway and the Pårørendesenteret (Next of Kin Centre)

The grant for Fontenehus Norway will be increased by NOK 10 million. Fontenehus Norway offers work training and empowerment experiences through meaningful activities and social community, where the aim is to help participants return to ordinary working life and studies.

Family members are both an important resource and a group that often experiences a significant amount of stress. The Government will therefore increase the grant to the Pårørendesenteret (Next of Kin Centre) by NOK 8 million. This grant will help provide support, respite care and guidance for family members.

This article was updated on May 16 with information on how the Norwegian Directorate of Health will review the received applications after the Revised National Budget is approved.