NHS anti-alcohol funding doubled

The government has pledged to tackle Scotland's booze culture

The amount of cash given to health boards to tackle alcohol abuse has more than doubled from last year, the Scottish Government has announced.

A total of £25m will be shared between the 14 health boards to pay for screening, prevention and treatment services.

The sum forms part of a three-year, £85m funding commitment aimed at reducing Scotland's drink culture.

The funding was announced by Public Health Minister Shona Robison.

She revealed that Greater Glasgow would receive £6.3m, the biggest single sum in the share-out.

The smallest allocation of £333,000 goes to Orkney health board.

Ms Robison said: "Today's funding will ensure that people across Scotland have access to advice and support about their drinking and to treatment services where necessary," she said.

"But Scottish Government action does not stop there.

"We are currently developing a long-term strategic approach to tackling alcohol misuse. We plan to publish our proposals for action before the summer."

A total of £10.13m was given to fund health board's anti-alcohol strategies last year.