Eradicating child poverty in Scotland – the ‘single greatest priority’: FM

Wednesday, 4 September 2024 00:01

First Minister John Swinney will set out the next steps to deliver his “single greatest priority” of lifting children out poverty in his first Programme for Government later today. Against a challenging financial backdrop, Scottish Government actions to address the climate emergency, grow the economy and deliver high quality and sustainable public services will also be outlined in the First Minister's statement to Parliament. The First Minister said: “No one's...Request free trial

First Minister John Swinney will set out the next steps to deliver his “single greatest priority” of lifting children out poverty in his first Programme for Government later today.

Against a challenging financial backdrop, Scottish Government actions to address the climate emergency, grow the economy and deliver high quality and sustainable public services will also be outlined in the First Minister's statement to Parliament.

The First Minister said:

“No one's opportunities should be determined by the circumstances they are born into, which is why this year's Programme for Government will prioritise measures focused on our single greatest priority of eradicating child poverty. To do this, we will support the whole family in ensuring they can access the help they need, when they need it.

“We already have a strong track record of improving the lives of children across Scotland, including through our game-changing Scottish Child Payment and expansion of early learning and childcare. This Government's policies are estimated to keep 100,000 children out of relative poverty this year.

“The Child Poverty Action Group has also estimated that low-income families in Scotland will be around £28,000 better off by the time their child turns 18, compared to families across the UK, as a result of actions taken by this Government.

“These provide strong foundations for this year's Programme for Government, but we are determined to go further. Even as we face unprecedented budgetary constraint, I am optimistic that we can still greatly enhance the lives of children and their families.

“We also know that investment in public services, growing our economy and tackling climate change all contribute to improving lives and livelihoods. That is why this Programme for Government is also focused on delivering the right care in the right place, prioritising the development of renewable energy to reach net zero and working with businesses to grow a stronger and more inclusive economy.”

Background

On Wednesday 4 September the First Minister's statement on the Programme for Government at 14:50 will be followed by the Scottish Government Debate: Programme for Government at 15:20.