SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don-Innes, has highlighted the latest report from the Trussell Trust which shows how vital the SNP introduced policy of free prescriptions is to the people of Scotland.

The Trussell Trust report on people receiving Universal Credit is a damning assessment of the damage cruel DWP policies are having on people in Renfrewshire North & West, including those in work. The report found that 68% of working households receiving universal credit have gone without essentials such as prescription medication.

Thanks to the SNP this does not apply in Scotland. Everyone, regardless of income status, has free access to prescriptions – ensuring that no matter who you are you can get the vital medication you need. In Renfrewshire North & West the average person receives 19 free prescriptions per year, saving £183.35 per person.

The SNP is committed to a social contract with the people of Scotland that ensures no matter what your financial status – you will have access to essential services such as prescriptions, further education and additional health support.

Commenting, Natalie Don-Innes MSP said:

“Free prescriptions are a vital part of the social contract the SNP has with people across Renfrewshire North & West – no matter what your income status is it is essential that you have access to medical treatment.

“This Trussell Trust report indicates exactly how vital a policy this is as over two thirds of working households receiving universal credit are having to go without essential items such as toiletries and prescriptions.

“The Tories left behind a legacy of cruel social security decisions and it is time for this Labour UK government to get a move on and start supporting those most in need, which is exactly what the SNP is doing in Scotland.”

Notes
Half of universal credit claimants ran out of food in the last month - Big Issue