Charitable Trust in Falkirk Has Not Spent Any Money to Help Alcohol and Drug Addicts for Years
A charitable trust in Falkirk established to aid individuals affected by addiction has not disbursed any funds for several years, according to auditors. The Falkirk Temperance Trust, which currently holds £165,365 in its bank account, is meant to grant funds to assist those battling alcohol abuse or drug addiction. However, during a recent meeting of Falkirk Council’s audit committee, it was revealed that due to strict legal constraints, the Trust has not made any expenditures to provide this support in recent times.
Originally set up in 1919 through a donation by Dr John Aitken, the Temperance Trust initially supported a local temperance cafe until 1983. In 1991, the Trust’s scope was broadened by the Court of Session, allowing its funds to be utilised by other organisations addressing alcohol or drug abuse issues. Administered by Falkirk Council, the Chief Finance Officer serves as the Treasurer, with three Councillors appointed as Trustees.
Pauline Gillen of Audit Scotland, in Falkirk Council’s annual audit report, stated that the council should explore avenues to utilise the funds from the Falkirk Temperance Trust to offer assistance to individuals impacted by addiction in the Falkirk region. The auditor’s report noted that since the audit appointment in 2022/23, there have been no transactions through the Trust besides bank interest and charges. The report emphasised that the significant funds available could have a tangible impact on those affected by addiction in Falkirk, prompting the council to consider ways to utilise the funds as intended.
While Falkirk Council cited legal obstacles hindering the fulfilment of entitlement criteria, the auditors stressed the importance of finding ways to utilise the funds for their intended purpose. The report urged the council to explore options to spend the Trust in a manner that would achieve the desired outcomes for individuals in need. Falkirk Council has accepted the auditor’s recommendations and plans to collaborate with Trustees to assess available alternatives.
In conclusion, the Falkirk Temperance Trust’s dormant state highlights the challenges organisations face in navigating legalities to serve their intended beneficiaries effectively. It underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure that charitable funds are utilised purposefully to support communities in need. Falkirk Council’s commitment to exploring ways to activate the Trust’s resources demonstrates a proactive approach towards addressing addiction-related challenges in the Falkirk area.