Local MSP for Linlithgow Constituency, Fiona Hyslop, has welcomed the report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which shows that Scotland is set to see a decline in child poverty, but disappointed to see rates are set to rise across the rest of the UK.
The report forecasts that child poverty in Scotland will fall from 23.7% to 21.8% by January 2029 as a result of Scottish Government policies such as the Scottish Child Payment and scrapping the two-child benefit cap.
Commenting Fiona said:
“I was pleased to see that child poverty rates in Scotland are set to drop as a result of progressive SNP policies, highlighted in the report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
“I welcome the recent figures from the report, confirming that Scottish Government policies such as the Scottish Child Payment and the two-child benefit cap are vital in supporting families in West Lothian, whilst child poverty rates appear to be on the rise across the rest of the UK.
“The Scottish Government is committed to eradicating child poverty and delivering for families in West Lothian, and whilst there is still work to be done, the results of this report highlight that we are closer to achieving our goals and making a difference to children’s lives.
“The 2024-25 Scottish Government budget will support families across West Lothian, committing £471 million to the Scottish Child Payment, which benefits 12460 children in West Lothian. The Scottish Child Payment will increase to £27.15 per child per week, ensuring children across West Lothian are getting the support they need.”
ENDS