THE Scottish Government is awarding grants of up to £80,000 to 12 local projects that support families in poverty around the country.
The grant will help families access health services, budgeting advice, and support employees.
It comes as part of this year’s programme for government and ties in with Challenge Poverty Week 2024.
First Minister John Swinney is expected to welcome the announcement to CentreStage, a performing arts charity in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, on Tuesday.
He will also meet with people with experience of poverty at Bute House later in the day, before leading a parliamentary debate on the topic.
Swinney said: “Organisations like CentreStage demonstrate how the government is working closely with communities, local government and the third sector to help families facing challenges right now.
“My national mission to end child poverty is underpinned by the importance of this type of collaboration.
“We want to see this community-focused approach replicated across Scotland.
“That’s why our Fairer Future Partnerships are expanding to five new areas across Scotland – joining up local services, offering financial advice and supporting parents into work.”
He added: “Engaging people with experience of poverty as we build these services is at the heart of the government’s approach – and we are building on the strong foundations we have laid to end poverty in Scotland.
“The Child Poverty Practice Accelerator Fund will kick-start another 12 innovative projects across the country to give even more families the help and support they need.”
Challenge Poverty Week is a Poverty Alliance initiative which has taken place every year since 2013. This year it takes place from October 7–13, with organisations across Scotland coming together to highlight the injustice of poverty.
Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council and chair of East Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership Board, said: “In East Ayrshire, we recognise that the challenges of addressing poverty and inequality require the combined efforts of a whole range of partners.
“We are therefore delighted to be one of five new Fairer Future Partnerships and look forward to working with Scottish Government and our partners, including the third sector, to advance local, innovative approaches that reduce child poverty through improving wellbeing, maximising incomes and supporting people into work.
“As a council we have already committed £40 million to be spent over the next ten years in support of change, prevention and early intervention, reflecting our commitment to tackling poverty and increasing fairness in our communities.”
