Politicians hit out as East Dunbartonshire charity set to lose 96% of funding

STAND International, which has a base at Townhead in Kirkintilloch, says it has provided funding for volunteering, vocational and educational training through the scheme to help more than 800 young people and adults.

Many of those who have benefited have been homeless, experienced substance misuse or mental health trauma.

Erasmus+ is the European Union programme for education, training, youth and sport.

In January, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised there was no threat to the scheme.But the European Commission said last week that the EU offered it but “ the decision was made in London not to pursue UK association” with it.

Local SNP politicians have called for clarity on the issue.Rona Mackay MSP said: “For these young people, Erasmus+ is a life-changing, transformative programme that otherwise wouldn’t have been available to them.

“For it to be taken away from them by this out-of-touch Tory government really is simply devastating.”

Amy Callaghan MP added: “The effect of this decision on charities and third-sector organisations in Scotland cannot be overlooked.

"The UK government must urgently outline how organisations will be supported to overcome the loss of this crucial funding.”