A Lanarkshire MSP is calling for action on free school meals following Challenge Poverty Week.
Central Scotland representative Monica Lennon backed the Poverty Alliance during the annual campaign which ran from October 3 to October 9.
The Scottish Labour and Co-operative politician is now leading calls in the Scottish Parliament for the Scottish Government to urgently expand access to universal free school meals to pupils in Primary 6 and 7 classes, as well as secondary schools.
Currently the scheme is only available to children in Primary 1 through to Primary 5.
Ms Lennon told Lanarkshire Live : “Whilst we should be challenging poverty every single day, Challenge Poverty Week is an opportunity to highlight the social inequalities that are present in Scotland.
“As we move on from a week of intense anti-poverty campaigning, we cannot allow the spotlight to shift away when so many children, adults and families are struggling.
“The cost-of-living crisis will leave many people vulnerable this winter unless we see the right action from every level of government.
“Children going to school hungry leaves them vulnerable to falling behind and facing further social inequalities.
“Providing universal free school meals is one step that can be taken to ease the pressure.."
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