Government announces extra funds to support chronic pain sufferers

The Scottish Government have announced that £240,000 is being invested into projects that support those living with chronic pain.

Public health minister Maree Todd confirmed that the money will be split between 13 projects that aid chronic pain sufferers.

The additional cash will be split between a range of services including the bladder and pelvic pain management programme, support for chronic hip, knee, and back pain, and support to help people remain physically active.

The funding boost comes after new figures showed a drop of 9% in the number of people seen at specialist chronic pain clinics.

Data from Public Health Scotland showed chronic pain clinics saw 1900 people over the period July to September 2021 – which was down from 2087 in the previous three months.

Public health minister Maree Todd said: “Living with chronic pain can be incredibly difficult and we are determined to improve services for all those affected.

“Health Boards have continued to make progress in restarting chronic pain services during extremely challenging circumstances over the last 18 months but the unprecedented impact of the COVID pandemic means that many people are waiting for treatment.

“The additional resourcing provided through the Chronic Pain Winter Support Fund will enhance the capacity of pain management care to will help maintain the health and wellbeing of those affected by chronic pain in the months ahead.”