STRIVE celebrated at National Drug Mission Conference 2026
Hillcrest Futures’ STRIVE service has been recognised at the National Drug Mission Conference 2026, where the team received the Frontline Worker Certificate of Recognition for its work supporting young people in Dundee affected by substance use and poor mental health.
Hosted by the Corra Foundation on 4th March, the conference brought together organisations and professionals from across Scotland to showcase effective practice, share learning and highlight the impact of National Drug Mission grant funding.
The event was attended by Maree Todd, Minister for Drugs, Alcohol and Sport and featured a range of panel discussions, workshops and presentations. STRIVE contributed to the event with a poster presentation outlining its work and achievements.
Danny Kelly, Operations Manager at Hillcrest Futures, said: “I nominated our STRIVE service, a partnership between Hillcrest Futures and The Corner (NHS Tayside). STRIVE supports young people aged 12 to 21 in Dundee who are using substances and experiencing poor mental health.
“This co-located service brings together third-sector and NHS expertise to deliver proactive early intervention and prevention, while also supporting families affected by substance use.
“To date, STRIVE has supported more than 300 young people through both one-to-one and group work, with tailored approaches for ages 12 to 15 and 16 to 21.”
Young people supported by STRIVE have spoken positively about the impact of the service. One said: “I’m feeling better about getting support now. I know my parents will feel better that I am too.” Another added: “They made me feel very heard and seen. They let me talk about all I needed to.”
STRIVE continues to play a vital role in improving the wellbeing of young people in Dundee by providing accessible, compassionate and early support at a time when it can make the greatest difference.
