NATALIE DON HIGHLIGHTS ‘WRAPAROUND’ CHILDCARE TO BENEFIT LOW-INCOME FAMILIES AND INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN AS PART OF RENFREWSHIRE’S RECOVERY

Scottish Parliament election SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, is backing the SNP’s proposed new ‘wraparound’ all year-round childcare system which will support parents to take up employment opportunities.

The SNP’s current expansion of free, high quality childcare provision to 1,140 hours – the same time a child spends in primary school – will be completed by August 2021. 

If re-elected to form the next government, the SNP will further extend free early years childcare to all one and two-year-olds, with those from low-income families given first access.

The proposed new ‘wraparound’ childcare system, which will offer before and after school care, will see families on the lowest incomes paying nothing, while others will make fair and affordable contributions.

Natalie Don said:

 "Families throughout Renfrewshire experienced a tough year of disruption to their children’s learning, with the COVID-19 pandemic highlighting that too many are still facing barriers in accessing affordable childcare.

“This support will also go a long way in helping to provide more equality for women who often take on the lead parenting role in the household. Due to the unequal division of care at home, many of the restrictions we have faced as a result of Covid, such as the closure of schools, childcare settings and the inability to get informal childcare, has meant working parents have become full-time carers for their children and this has created new, additional demands and burdens on working mums and dads. The wraparound childcare system will revolutionise this and increase employment opportunities for both parents.

“All children deserve equal access to education and that begins by ensuring our very youngest children are given the best possible opportunities to learn and be cared for while their parents are at work.

"In addition to the SNP’s investments in providing free breakfasts and lunches to primary school pupils and our commitment to doubling the Scottish Child Payment, offering transformational support needed by many families will open up employment opportunities for parents who currently cannot afford to work due to high childcare costs.

“The ‘wraparound’ childcare system will be a key part of the SNP’s plans to drive Scotland's recovery and I look forward to it making a substantial contribution in enabling parents across Renfrewshire North and West to take up work, or work longer, and help to increase their family’s income as a consequence. “

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joins SNP candidate Natalie Don in Renfrew to unveil plans to double funding in sports and active living.

Scottish Parliament election candidate, Natalie Don, on Saturday welcomed the First Minister to the Renfrewshire North and West constituency, where the SNP’s plans to double funding in sports and active living were unveiled.

Nicola Sturgeon joined Natalie Don and her aughter, Ailsa, in Renfrew’s Robertson Park to reaffirm the SNP’s commitment to invest £60 million in renovating and upgrading play parks across the country.

Ms Sturgeon confirmed an SNP Government will increase investment in sport and active living to £100 million by the end of the parliament and a new national plan will be devised to break down barriers preventing people from participating in physical activities.

The SNP has also committed to help sports fans become more involved in the running of their club. A ‘Fan Bank’ will empower communities and groups who do not have access to capital to acquire a share or control of their local sports club. Successful applicants will be required to show how their proposals will benefit their community – for instance how their involvement will support women and girls’participation in sport.

During her visit to support Natalie Don’s campaign, Nicola Sturgeon said:

“The last 12 months have caused all of us to reflect on our relationship and with sport and physical activity. The SNP has already set out plans to capitalise on the uptake of cycling seen during the lockdown, by providing free bikes to all school children who could not otherwise afford one, and significantly increasing investment in active travel infrastructure.

“And by investing in play parks we will ensure that our very youngest children have the outdoor space to play, to build fitness and to be with their friends.

“We are also absolutely determined that everyone in Scotland can benefit from investment in sport and physical activity – and we will back up this determination by doubling the Scottish Government’s investment in sport and active living to £100 million a year by the end of the parliament.

“We will work with organisations and individuals to devise a new national activity plan – focussing on breaking down barriers that keep too many people from leading active lives. As a priority, this will include supporting the participation of more women and girls.

“Of course, the last year has also tested sports clubs of all sizes to their limits. We know that fans care deeply about how their clubs perform both on and off the field – and although they may have great ideas for how their clubs could be better run for the benefit of their community, they may not have the funding to do so.

“The SNP will set up a Fan Bank which will allow those fans to access capital to turn this dream into a reality. If they can demonstrate clear community focus, we believe they should be supported.”

Natalie Don added:

“I was delighted to show Nicola around the state-of-the-art play area in Robertson Park which is a tremendous facility helping to improve local children’s health and social inclusion. I welcome the SNP’s commitment to renovating and upgrading play parks which will enable many more youngsters from their early years to get chances to enjoy physical activities and improve their fitness in fun, safe environments.

“It is pleasing that the number of women taking part in sport in Scotland has risen substantially in recent years – including a doubling of female footballers, a 105% increase of women in hockey clubs and 67% more playing basketball – but, as the First Minister highlighted during her visit today, more can be done to create a level playing field allowing everyone to become more active and healthier.

“By voting for the SNP on both the constituency and regional ballot papers on 6th May, people in Renfrewshire North and West can help elect an SNP Government which will invest heavily in sport and physical activity; and ensure that opportunities to lead a more active life are open to all.”

ELECTION CANDIDATE NATALIE DON BACKS SNP’S GREEN TRANSPORT REVOLUTION TO GET SCOTLAND MOVING

Scottish Parliament election candidate for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, is backing the SNP’s plans to deliver a green transport revolution which aims to help Scotland meet its net-zero emissions of all greenhouse gases target by 2045.

The SNP’s manifesto commitments include a raft of measures to improve Scotland’s public transport system including commitments to;

Remove most fossil fuel buses from public transport by 2023 and invest £120 million in zero emission buses

Phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars or vans by 2030; 

Bring Scotrail into public hands from next year and create greener, more affordable rail travel

Work with regional transport partnerships to reinstate or develop new railway branch lines across rural Scotland and commuter lines in urban areas 

Provide free bikes for all school age children who cannot afford them.

SNP candidate Natalie Don has welcomed this announcement and the positive impacts this could have on local people across Renfrewshire North & West stating;

 “Since the start of the pandemic, we have seen a huge increase in cycling and walking across Renfrewshire North & West as people felt safer using much quieter local roads, but not everyone could take up such opportunities due to the cost of bikes being out of reach.

 “I want a Scotland where everyone can benefit from outdoor activities, enjoying getting fitter in a cleaner environment and having the option of owning and using a bike on our local streets, cycle paths and around our beautiful countryside. 

 “The SNP is committed to spending 10% of the transport capital budget on walking, cycling and wheeling by the end of the next parliament; investing over £500 million to improve bus infrastructure and tackle congestion; making loans and grants available for everybody to purchase or repair pedal cycles; and ensuring every child leaves school able to cycle safely.

 “If elected, I will work with SNP colleagues to implement a green transport revolution to reduce transport poverty, increase access to high quality, separated walking and cycling networks enabling safe daily commutes and minimising private motor vehicle dependence.

“I will also work to deliver better local bus services and explore opportunities to re-introduce rail infrastructure to improve much-needed cost effective and reliable public transport options for people living throughout the constituency – including in Renfrew, Erskine and our commuter villages such as Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm.”

SNP manifesto commitments to increase support for students welcomed by Renfrewshire North & West candidate Natalie Don.

SNP candidate Natalie Don has welcomed an array of measures to support students in Renfrewshire North and West. The SNP woman highlighted how her party are committed to supporting students through the pandemic and into the recovery - by driving forward the Widening Access agenda and expanding student support.

The SNP have confirmed a number of key commitments for students that a re-elected SNP Government will take forward, including:

Protecting free tuition and maintaining the Education Maintenance Allowance.

Implementing the recommendations of the Commissioner for Widening Access, including a review of funding for post-graduate students.

Expanding student support over the next three years to reach the equivalent of the Real Living Wage - with as much as possible being done through grants.

A student mental health action plan - including action to tackle waiting times and ensure equity of access.

Within the constraints of the devolved settlement, fighting for a fairer deal for young workers against exploitative zero-hours contracts, unpaid internships and workplace discrimination.

Advocating for Scotland’s inclusion in Erasmus+ - but also creating a Scottish programme of exchange to provide mobility and cooperation opportunities in higher education, vocational education and training, adult education, youth and sport.

This is part of a raft of measures in the SNP’s policy manifesto which aims to kickstart and drive recovery as we move forward from the Covid 19 pandemic.

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don has welcomed the manifesto commitments for students stating;

“The SNP have always fought to improve the lives of students and ensure that access to education is about the ability to learn, not to pay. The SNP abolished tuition fees in Scotland - and as long as we are in government, they will never be re-introduced. Full-time college students in Scotland also benefit from the highest bursary of anywhere in the UK, and we’ve also expanded the Education Maintenance Allowance, which was scrapped down south.”

“Record numbers of students from the poorest background are now attending university - but we need to go further. For many students, managing student finances was hard before the pandemic but with many jobs in sectors which are usually filled by students such as hospitality being hardest hit by Covid, this will undoubtedly have an effect on the job prospects of many students. This problem could also increase during the summer - students are not eligible for Universal Credit during the summer so when student support ends at the end of term, many students will find themselves in financial hardship if they cannot find employment. This could have a real impact on students' ability to stay in university and I don’t want to see anyone dropping out because they can’t afford it.

“I am very pleased that the SNP manifesto commitment includes a review of funding provision for postgraduate students and an expansion of our student support package to reach the equivalent of the Real Living Wage over the next three years. I believe this will go a long way to ensuring that our students are properly supported.

“Aside from financial difficulties, I was glad to see that student welfare is at the heart of the manifesto with a commitment to a student mental health action plan. This has been a year like no other for students so we need to make sure that support is available going forward for anyone who needs it.”

“I am sure many students will also be pleased to hear about the creation of a Scottish programme of exchange. This will seek to recover some of the opportunities taken away from Scottish students following the UK Government’s unnecessary unilateral withdrawal from the Erasmus+ scheme after they dragged Scotland out of the EU against our will.”

“On the 6th May, vote SNP for a government who will enact bold policies to ensure our students have the support and opportunities they require.”

SNP CANDIDATE NATALIE DON WELCOMES STUC CONGRESS’S RE-AFFIRMED SUPPORT FOR SCOTTISH SELF-DETERMINATION

The SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, has welcomed the STUC Congress’s vote today in support of a motion stating that the Scottish Parliament should have the power to hold a referendum on Scotland’s future and should not require the UK Government’s consent.

Natalie Don said: “The majority of people in Renfrewshire North and West did not vote for a decade of Tory austerity, Brexit or Boris Johnson’s toxic government and we should have the opportunity to choose our own path to a better future as Scotland recovers from the pandemic.

“I welcome today’s vote by the STUC Congress which restated its view that Westminster government should not resist a second independence referendum if a majority of pro-independence MSPs are elected in the upcoming Scottish Parliament election on 6 May.

“If we want to make sure the country we rebuild is the one we want it to be – with kindness, compassion, fairness, equality and enterprise at its heart, then we must work to the right plan, with all the tools we need to do the job.

"I am delighted that the STUC Congress recognises that Scotland's right to choose our own future is a decision that lies solely with the people of Scotland and not out-of-touch Westminster governments that we don’t vote for."

SNP Candidate Natalie Don: We must do more to increase job prospects and opportunities for women.

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West Natalie Don has said we must do more if we want to truly see an increase in opportunities and job prospects for women across Renfrewshire and Inverclyde. The SNP woman is confident that herself and the SNP are committed to delivering this for women going forward into our recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Natalie Don has highlighted a new report by charity ‘Close The Gap’ which shows the disproportionate impact that covid-19 has had on women in Scotland. The new report by Close The Gap shows that women’s unemployment in Scotland rose twice as fast as men’s at the start of lockdown (March-May 2020), a rise of 1.5% on the previous year compared with 0.7% for men. It says job disruption has disproportionately affected women because men and women tend to work in different jobs and sectors. More than a third (39%) of young women workers under 18 were furloughed in the UK, compared with 29% of male workers of the same age, and 23% of women aged 18-24 were furloughed compared with 19% of men.

The Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected women because men and women tend to work in different jobs and sectors. The report shows that women’s employment continues to be disproportionately affected by Covid-19 – one year into the pandemic.

Women’s concentration in low-paid service sectors such as retail and hospitality put them at risk of not just the furlough scheme but also reduced hours and pay cuts, and future job losses. Meanwhile, school and nursery closures have driven up an increase in childcare making it difficult for women to do their paid work from home, where this is required by their employer.

Natalie Don has stated that this disproportionality has been recognised by the SNP who have pledged to put women at the centre of the recovery from covid-19 with a range of commitments to improve economic and employment opportunities. This includes the establishment of a Women’s Business Centre, backed by £50m of investment, to unlock the potential of the next generation of female entrepreneurs, measures to help women financially at key moments in their life, such as suspending the interest on student loans during maternity leave, a pledge to continue work to make Scotland a safer place for women and girls to live - with a new multi-year £100 million funding stream over the next three years to back the Equally Safe strategy, support frontline services, and focus on prevention of male violence against women and girls and education on healthy respectful relationships. The SNP have also pledged to embed human rights in law in Scotland, they hope to do this by incorporating into Scots Law the UN Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women.

Commenting on the report SNP candidate Natalie Don said:

“Women already faced stark inequalities in the job market and this report shows that the Covid-19 pandemic has exasperated this even further. We already know women are more likely to work in low-paid service sectors such as retail or hospitality and these sectors have been massively disrupted by the pandemic. A year on and women’s incomes are still being hit harder by the pandemic.”

“Covid-19 is disproportionately pushing women, especially low paid women, young women and black and minority ethnic women, into poverty. They have had to suffer hours being cut, being furloughed, accepting reduced pay, and in many cases unfortunately losing their job altogether.”

“School and nursery closures meant more women having to struggle with working from home while providing childcare and managing home learning. Many new mothers, myself included, missed out on the support networks available for new mothers on maternity leave, impacting on women’s confidence to get back into the job market.”

“Women have been on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19 - and that means we must be at the centre of our plans for recovery. It is time for action. Scotland’s economic recovery must protect women’s jobs and lift them out of poverty. I am confident that the SNP is the only party that will put women at the heart of our covid recovery. Nicola Sturgeon has already announced the establishment of a woman’s business centre for Scotland and other key measures such as the incorporation of the UN Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women into Scots’ law. It is ambitious policies such as this that will help drive women out of poverty in Scotland and end employment discrimination for Scottish women.”

SNP candidate Natalie Don welcomes announcement of a £60m play park renewal fund

The SNP have announced a massive investment into our local environment in an effort to help give every child in Scotland a place to play. Building on the Outdoor Community Play Fund, £60 million will be invested to renew every play park in Scotland. 

SNP Leader Nicola Sturgeon has pledged that an SNP Government will be “more determined than ever to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up.” The SNP say they have recognised the impact the pandemic has had on children and young people and have unveiled a draft of measures to help children and families through the pandemic and into the recovery.

Key policies an SNP Government will support include:

Building on the Outdoor Community Play Fund, a £60m investment to renew every play park in Scotland. 

A free laptop or device for every pupil, together with a free internet connection

Providing free school breakfasts and lunches, year-round, to every primary school pupil - as well as for children in state-funded special schools.

Maintaining the provision of the Baby Box to all of Scotland’s new children, and explore ways that it can be used to further promote women’s health and support parental mental health. 

Doubling the Scottish Child Payment and continuing the Best Start Grants - the Pregnancy and Baby Payment, the Early Learning Payment and the School Age Payment - as well as increasing the Best Start Food payment to £4.50 per week and increasing eligibility by around 50% to all in receipt of Universal Credit.

Speaking on this latest announcement, SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West Natalie Don stated;

“I am thrilled that the SNP have chosen to invest £60 million putting in place a plan to renew every play park in Scotland, so that all children have access to a place to play in their own community.”

“Our outdoor spaces in Renfrewshire North and West are extremely important and should be of a high standard for all children to enjoy. During the pandemic this has been especially important as many children who don’t have access to a garden have relied on our parks for their outdoor play.”

“I am very passionate about improving our local parks. This is something I’ve prioritised both as a local councillor and as part of the SNP Renfrewshire Council administration. In Renfrewshire our very first budget committed £1.5 million for community led improvements to our parks and green spaces and we have just invested a further £1.5 million following the clear importance of outdoor spaces during the pandemic. I am proud to have worked with local communities to see fantastic upgrades to their parks and I will be extremely happy to carry this work on, if elected as your MSP for Renfrewshire North & West.”

“The last year has been incredibly tough for children and young people across Scotland, and by voting SNP in this election, people will be electing an SNP Government more determined than ever to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up - and to put the tools for our recovery in Scotland’s own hands.”

SNP Candidate Natalie Don calls for action following update on proposed new health centre in Dargavel, Bishopton

A long-awaited update on health provision in Bishopton has now been provided by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHS GG&C) Health Board following local concerns over a lack of progress on the issue. 

The Dargavel development has seen the population of Bishopton rise in recent years and there is growing concern within the community that the current health centre is struggling to cope with demand. A new health centre has been on the cards for some time and the Section 75 obligations related to the development note that a solution to the provision of healthcare facilities is to be agreed and delivered by the end of 2022. 

The health board have now provided an update on their plans to resolve this matter, to Gavin Newlands MP and SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don, setting out steps with short, medium and long-term proposals. This includes immediate actions to review options to improve capacity within the existing centre in Bishopton, and in the long term, a costing exercise will be undertaken for a solution to improve capacity within the new development, with hopes that design work will take place in next financial year followed by construction thereafter. 

Councillor Natalie Don and Gavin Newlands MP have welcomed this update however they have also raised their concerns over the length of time this is taking and have jointly written to the health board, requesting more urgency and clarity.

SNP candidate and Councillor Natalie Don stated, “I am pleased that investment into health provision within the Bishopton area remains a priority for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board and I am glad to note some progress in relation to moving forward with a costing exercise for a new health centre within the Dargavel development as well as options to improve capacity within the current centre.”

“However, I am concerned that we are still in the very early stages. The Bishopton community deserve a resolution to this sooner rather than later. As a local councillor for Bishopton, this has been something which has been raised with me repeatedly, by many residents and I have been working hard to get a resolution. Having been previously advised that costing and design work would be undertaken in early 2020, I am extremely disappointed that there has been no, or very little movement on this since then. The Bishopton community have been very patient but concerns over health provision continue to rise and people are understandably angry about the lack of clarity.”

“Gavin and I have jointly written to the Health Board to request that a number of actions are taken and urge that this matter is treated with priority. I can assure residents in Bishopton that if elected as your MSP, this will remain an absolute priority for me and I will continue to do everything within my power to see a resolution, that works for the whole community.”

Gavin Newlands MP said “Councillor Natalie Don is correct in her call for clarity on the plans being put forward by Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board. When I met with representatives from the GGCHB and RHSCP in December last year I made clear that the communities of Bishopton and Dargavel required not only certainty but a tangible timescale which they could expect delivery on a solution that works for all.”

Natalie Don officially becomes the SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West

Councillor Natalie Don has now submitted the relevant paperwork to stand as the SNP candidate for the constituency of Renfrewshire North & West in the Scottish Parliament elections on 6th May 2021.

Councillor Natalie Don said:

“It’s an absolute honour to be the SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West in the forthcoming election. This is the area I was brought up, one where I work and where I am raising my family – I wouldn’t have wanted to stand anywhere else.”

“There is no doubt that this is one of the most important elections in Scotland’s history and will determine our future.”

“The SNP is standing on a track record of putting Scotland first, looking to ensure that all decisions about Scotland are made here in Scotland. Even the Tories are now saying that an SNP win means we will have our Independence Referendum, that’s why it’s so important that everyone who believes in democracy, who believes that the people of Scotland are best placed to make the decisions about our future, should all vote for SNP in this election.”

“I have a strong track record as a local councillor – standing up for local residents and groups – and it is that determination and focus which I’ll take to the Scottish Parliament if I’m fortunate enough to be elected.”

SNP Councillors Urge Residents To Get Involved With the Infrastructure and Assets Community Investment fund

The programme for a new participatory budgeting fund, that will see Renfrewshire communities choose how cash is spent in their area, has been agreed today at Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board.

The first phase of the Infrastructure and Assets Community Investment Fund will launch in May with £1.2million set aside for the fund. Residents from communities across Renfrewshire will be asked to put forward “imaginative and innovative” ideas for infrastructure improvements in their local areas. Examples of this could be pathways, green infrastructure or road, footways, lighting or drainage improvements.

Public engagement will be carried out over three phases in an effort to ensure that proposals for every community in Renfrewshire are brought forward. The first phase will run from May to July and residents will be asked to share their suggestions on improvements they would like to see in their area. Following that, Renfrewshire Council officers will carry out an assessment of the projects put forward before forming a shortlist of proposals which residents from each area will then be asked to vote on. It is hoped that ideas will be brought forward that have community wide benefits and projects which will ideally cost between £5,000 and £50,000.

Convener of the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board, Councillor Cathy McEwan has welcomed the launch of this fund stating;

“This is an extremely positive initiative and could have real benefit to many of our communities. Not only will this give local people a key role in the decision-making process around improving infrastructure within their area, but it will allow the council an insight and better understanding of community priorities within each area.”

“To ensure all areas benefit from this investment, we will bring forward proposals for every area of Renfrewshire, with local communities shaping the investments that will bring benefits and improvements in their local area. I would encourage all residents across Renfrewshire to get involved with this. Many of us have spent more time in our local areas over the last year than ever before due to the pandemic, so I’m sure communities will have some good ideas.”

Depute Convener of the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board, Natalie Don stated:

“I am thrilled to see the launch of this fund and I am very happy that the implementation plan was agreed unanimously at today’s board. I am a big advocate of participatory budgeting and giving local communities more power and involvement in what goes on in their area. The SNP administration have already prioritised this through our Community Empowerment Fund, our Play Parks and Green Spaces fund and through our Village Investment fund and this is another important step in the same direction.”

“I really want to encourage residents to think outside the box when it comes to ideas for this programme. This is a chance to make real change in your area, things that could make a real difference to your community that might never have been thought of by a council officer. Projects that benefit large portions of the community will be prioritised so let’s try to be as innovative as possible when it comes to thinking of ideas.”

“If this initiative proves a success, this could be the start of something much bigger and communities could start to see more power over how money is spent in their areas in the future.”

Natalie Don: I Will Push For More Rail Access In Renfrewshire North and West

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don has welcomed the SNP Scottish Government’s announcement that ScotRail services will move into public sector control when the current franchise with Abellio expires. This will see Scotland’s railways put back into the hands of the people of Scotland.

Expected in March 2022, the Scottish Government have announced that rail services will be run by an arm’s length company owned and controlled by the Scottish Government.

This decision has came about due to a number of factors, including faults with the current franchising system, uncertainty from a year-long delay in the UK Government’s rail review and the effects of the Covid pandemic.

SNP Candidate Natalie Don, who has made clear that improving transport within the Renfrewshire North and West constituency is one of her main priorities has welcomed this news stating;

“This is an extremely positive announcement and will be a big step towards improving transport services across Scotland. I believe that having public transport in public hands will enhance our ability to make real improvements, working towards an efficient transport system that is accessible, cost effective and fit for the future.”

“I’m sure this will be welcome news for many commuters as we work towards a more efficient and reliable service. It could also help towards seeing improvements locally.

“Renfrewshire North & West is crying out for better transport services. Over the years we have seen our rail services stripped away and bus services cut. As a local councillor, I have always fought to improve and retain services locally.”

“I would love to see the re-introduction of rail infrastructure back to areas within the constituency. This could be of huge benefit to the people of Renfrew, Erskine and many of our commuter villages such as Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm, improving congestion and helping in our efforts to tackle the climate emergency.

“I appreciate the difficulties that would surround something like this and I am not saying this would be an easy task. The fact that certain powers over rail are still reserved to Westminster makes it even more difficult. However as a local woman, I’ve experienced the decline in our transport system over the years and I know the strain and hassle that commuting puts on people’s everyday lives. That is why if elected, I would be committed to doing everything within my power to bring about change, championing transport accessibility and promoting infrastructure being built here in Renfrewshire North and West.”

Natalie Don welcomes new Home Heating Support Fund

A new home heating support fund which will help people in Renfrewshire struggling with their energy bills during the covid lockdown has been welcomed by SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North andWest, Councillor Natalie Don. The £4million Scottish Government scheme, which will be administered by national advice service Advice Direct Scotland, is designed to prevent households falling into fuel poverty. The Home Heating Support Fund is open until March 31 and applications can only be made on behalf of individuals by'referral partners'.

This includes local authorities and third sector organisations, with payments then made directly to energy suppliers on behalf of their customers.

Eligibility is based on households which are'self-rationing'their energy, meaning those who are deliberately limiting their energy use so that they can afford to spend money on other goods or services.

In 2019, an estimated 24.6 per cent of all households were in fuel poverty - around 613,000 households - and the pandemic has increased financial hardship for many.

Councillor Natalie Don has encouraged any local residents struggling with their energy bills to seek support from the fund through the energy and/or debt organisation currently providing them with advice, or by contacting Advice Direct Scotland. Councillor Don said:"I would encourage anyone struggling to heat their home to seek the help and support available. This new fund is there to help those who need it most.

"No household should suffer in fuel poverty or have to ration fuel to get by. "The covid pandemic has increased financial hardship and many Scots have been left struggling as a result of increased energy costs while working from home or home-schooling."

Referrals for the government scheme can be made through https:// homeheatingadvice.scot/

Natalie Don calls for Renfrewshire Council to sign up to the Edinburgh Agreement on Biodiversity.

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West, Councillor Natalie Don, has raised a motion for this weeks full council meeting calling for Renfrewshire Council to sign up to the Edinburgh Agreement on Biodiversity.

This declaration is being supported by many Scottish Councils in an effort to halt biodiversity loss. Councils have a central role to play in delivering this objective.

The declaration itself calls for a collective commitment to raise ambition for nature’s recovery and recognises both society’s collective failure to halt biodiversity loss and the urgent need for transformative action across land and sea.

SNP candidate Natalie Don stated,

“Biodiversity and climate change are closely linked. This is about our stewardship of the planet for future generations - something I am acutely aware of with a young child. We are in the midst of a climate emergency and with targets to reduce all greenhouse emissions in Scotland by 2045, we need to take steps now.”

“Biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal life in a specific habitat however there are many ways that we as humans benefit from biodiversity, whether that’s through our natural resources, food production, medicine or even job creation. The global pandemic has also been a further reminder for many of us of the importance of nature and our surroundings, for both our mental and physical wellbeing. We need to ensure our natural environment is both protected and enhanced for our own sake and for future generations.”

“This agreement seeks to prioritise Renfrewshire’s commitment towards biodiversity and our natural environment. If we are serious about tackling climate change, ending biodiversity loss and providing new green opportunities for employment and production, this agreement will be vital going forward. I hope all councillors will agree to this motion at Thursday’s meeting. “

90% OF SCOTS HAPPY WITH NEW SCOTTISH SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM.

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West Natalie Don has highlighted a new survey from Social Security Scotland which reveals that more than four in five clients feel Scotland’s social security agency treats them with dignity, fairness and respect and shows that “people in Scotland shouldn’t be forced to accept toxic Tory policies.”

Over 3,000 clients took part in Social Security Scotland’s client survey - with 90% of people rating their overall experience as ‘very good’ or ‘good’.

Some of the feedback included clients describing their experience as “compassionate,” “1st class” and an “accessible and professional service.”

This is in stark contrast to the UK Government, that has been condemned by the UN’s special rapporteur. The UN have described the Conservative led UK Government’s handling of the welfare state and extreme poverty as an “ideological project causing pain and misery”. The Rapporteur has said that UK Ministers are in a “state of denial” over the impact poverty is having on one in five people in the UK.

SNP Candidate Natalie Don said:

“It is refreshing to see such positive feedback on Scotland’s social security system. Here in Scotland we have made a conscious choice to build a system that is built on the requirements of those who need it most, based on actual lived experience of poverty, and engagement with local communities across Scotland.”

The Scottish Government have already introduced game-changing policies to tackle poverty and support some of the most vulnerable families, including the Scottish Child Payment, the Best Start Grant and the Job Start Payment. It really is eye opening when you compare this with the countless Tory welfare cuts, callous disability assessments, DWP administrative errors, sanctions and completely out of touch and broken policies such as Universal Credit.”

“Right now the latest effort from the Tories is hanging on with everything they can to refuse people the £20 increase to Universal Credit they have received during the pandemic. They want people on the poverty line to be worse off, get into debt and need to go to food banks as has been outlined by the United Nations.”

“People in Renfrewshire North and West shouldn’t be forced to accept these disgraceful welfare decisions forced upon us by Boris Johnson. Scotland’s future can be your choice, with the full powers of independence, Scotland can continue to improve on our own social security system that is built on dignity, fairness and respect for everyone.”

Councillors Praise Community Commitment to Clean Up

Selfless volunteers across Renfrewshire are continuing their good work during the lockdown by cleaning up as part of their daily exercise. Renfrewshire Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign has grown from strength to strength since it began in 2017 however the global pandemic has seen many activities being cancelled or postponed including the Big Spring Clean which would usually have taken place throughout the month of April. The council are also not currently distributing clean up equipment such as litter pickers and bags.

This hasn’t stopped some groups and individuals in their mission to keep Renfrewshire clean as volunteers are still managing to fit in clean ups as part of their daily exercise.

Cllr Cathy McEwan Convener of the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board has given her thanks to these committed volunteers stating;

“We want to say a big thanks to all those members of our communities who, despite everything that’s going on just now, continue to get stuck in cleaning up their areas.”

“Along with everything else, organised Team Up to Clean Up activities have ceased during this pandemic. We don’t want anyone risking their lives to pick up litter. However these groups and individuals have proven they will stop at nothing and as long as they can do so safely and are not breaking any lockdown guidelines, I think they deserve our gratitude.”

“While we are in no way expecting this of people it really is heartwarming to see the commitment and dedication these volunteers have to keep their areas clean and tidy.”

SNP Candidate for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don added;

“When we started the Team Up to Clean Up campaign back in 2017 we had no idea of the immense community support the campaign would receive. It continues to grow from strength to strength and to see that passion continue even in these unprecedented times is truly incredible. Thank you to everyone who continues to make this a priority.”

“It is commendable that local people are doing this for their areas. I would emphasise however that if you are out doing a clean up that you follow the Scottish Government's advice at all times.”

Natalie Don Welcomes Research That Examines How Communities Responded to the Pandemic

SNP candidate Natalie Don has welcomed a new report that has shown the extent to which communities have risen to meet the challenges presented by Covid-19. ‘Together We Help’ has been published this week, and charts the community response to the pandemic.

The report shows that when Scotland first went into lockdown in March 2020, a wave of uncertainty and fear was felt throughout society as people were told to stay at home, to save lives. But as schools, shops and offices closed, communities did not. Local people and grassroots groups were quick to come up with innovative ways to help during the crisis. Social action accelerated and became a central feature of Scotland’s response to the lockdown and ongoing challenges of coronavirus.

In July 2020 Social Action Inquiry partners commissioned The Collective to lead on a short-term piece of research to capture the stories and lessons learned from communities coming together to help. From food drop offs to phone calls to isolated neighbours, volunteering and wellbeing support, the research brings to life the ways people developed creative approaches to make a difference. The final research report Together We Help is now available and shines a light on the power of communities to mobilise and initiate social action in response to the issues that matter to them.

Eighteen community researchers gathered insights from 367 people involved in social action in their local areas, asking what inspired them to be involved and what lessons can be learned to build a fairer Scotland.

The research suggests that the stigma associated with accessing support such as foodbanks in times of need may have reduced as demand for these vital services increased dramatically throughout lockdown in 2020. Community researchers also found that offering support and participating in local responses to the coronavirus crisis was both a ‘blessing and a curse’ as while it helped people to feel more connected to their community, it also increased awareness and feelings of frustration at the growing levels of inequality on their doorstep.

Councillor Natalie Don said,

“The altruism and community spirit that I have experienced locally in Renfrewshire North and West has been truly fantastic by many local groups, community champions and generally caring  individuals. This research from our communities is welcome and it highlights the togetherness that has been shown in our local areas through the hardest of times over the last year.”

This report also highlights the cold reality many people in our area face and the brutal financial inequalities that exist right in front of our eyes. Protecting people financially, achieving a reasonable standard of living and life happiness for all of our friends, families and neighbours should be our focus in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.

“As we recover from the pandemic it is the voices of our communities that matter the most to me on how we truly improve our area for everyone here. We must build towards a future that puts real people and real problems that the people in Renfrewshire North and West are facing first and foremost.”

Natalie Don: Food banks should not be normalised

The National recently highlighted that food banks have in some cases seen a ten fold rise in people needing support in the form of an emergency food parcel. The completely solvable issue of food poverty in Scotland will continue to be the number one reason that I want to see us push on and finally achieve our independence in 2021. For over a decade UK Government’s (Tory, Labour and Lib Dem) have made food poverty the norm. It is not normal.

Food poverty can only end when people have the money to afford to buy food. The reality is that people do not have that money. The system that we currently live in leaves people behind and they have absolutely no alternative than to access a food bank. Years have passed and many solutions have been proposed as to how we end food poverty in Scotland, the UK Government have continually buried their heads in the sand on welfare policies and productive changes that could have helped ease food poverty in this country. 

The big supermarket chains are quick to take credit for supporting food banks while you buy the food in their shops. They continue to normalise food poverty while making millions from it. It’s high time that more emphasis and awareness is put on why all these food donation bins exist in our shops. Perhaps having some kind of signage stating;

Please donate to your local food bank as the Conservative UK Government refuse to give welfare claimants a reasonable sum of money to live on and the minimum wage is so low we have in-work families in food poverty.” Perhaps this would help to remind people that food poverty and food banks should never be normalised.

I do agree wages need to go up for low paid workers, we do need to make the £20 increase in Universal credit permanent, we do need to scrap the 5 week wait and yes, people are needing cash right now due to covid instead of food parcels, we must do all we can to keep everyone safe including our volunteers through this crisis. The elephant in the room however on how we eradicate this problem forever is clearly Scottish Independence. Surely anyone can see that the UK Government whether it’s red or blue will never end food poverty in our country. More and more people are plunging deeper into poverty due to the pandemic, things are going to get worse in Bojo’s Brexit Britain. It is only with independence we will finally say goodbye to food banks in Scotland. 

Natalie Don visiting EBI Unites Community Food Pantry

SNP Candidate Wants Permanent Wage Rise for Vital Supermarket Workers

The Coronavirus pandemic has seen a drastic change in how we all live our lives. It has brought to light just how valuable our NHS workers are along with other key roles that cannot be performed at home such as that being performed by our supermarket workers. Councillor for Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank Natalie Don is calling for increased support for those working in our food stores and depots.

Major food retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Aldi are increasing wages by 10% for staff, Morrisons are tripling employees annual bonus and Asda are offering staff a full week of wages. This is all as a goodwill gesture for being exposed to Coronavirus in stores across Renfrewshire.

Renfrewshire employs 1000’s of supermarket workers with all the major retailers having stores in our towns and villages. All of these workers will be more at risk of contracting covid - 19 compared to those working from home. The Coronavirus has seen supermarkets have to take drastic measures to allow social distancing for shoppers.

Councillor Don said:

“The global pandemic has enlightened us that roles such as supermarket workers, cleaners and factory workers are absolutely essential to keep our country going. A quick rethink of social attitudes towards low paid key workers is necessary at this time.”

“It is welcome that supermarkets are offering staff an array of bonuses for putting themselves at risk. It does ponder the question however, why low paid staff working for these multi million pound store chains are not already getting better wages and incentives for the work they do.”

“I don’t actually think the bonuses being offered by supermarkets is enough at this time. How can we justify the wages of sports stars while supermarket workers on minimum wage are becoming seriously ill or even dying. You cannot put a price on life but it is surely more than what supermarket workers are being paid.”

“As a former supermarket worker myself for 10 years I know how stressful it can be at times and how hard it can be to make ends meet financially. You all have my sincerest gratitude for the essential work you are doing for us all at the moment, you are heroes.”

Natalie Don: Let's Keep Our Roads Tidy

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West Natalie Don is calling for people in Renfrewshire to keep the county looking tidy and clear of litter. Councillor Natalie Don is warning that with drive thru restaurants beginning to re-open we may begin to see an emergence in roadside rubbish from drive thru takeaways.

Big chain restaurants in Renfrewshire such as Burger King, KFC and McDonalds along with coffee shops such as Tim Hortons and Costa Coffee are beginning to reopen for limited drive thru access. After being in complete lockdown for the last 8 weeks Renfrewshire’s big food chain stores have not been open to the public. However with more and more drive thru facilities implementing social distancing measures we are seeing a rise in these stores re- opening.

Renfrewshire Council launched the Team Up to Clean Up campaign in 2017 to help reduce the amount of litter across Renfrewshire and roadside litter has been a major focus of the campaign. The Scottish Government have made roadside litter a priority with new legislation planned which will make it an offence to litter from vehicles.

Keep Scotland Beautiful found that 54% of roadside litter came from people eating and drinking on the go. A recent YouGov poll also found that just 9% of people want things to go back to how they were before the lockdown citing environmental benefits as a major factor.

Councillor Natalie Don is asking that we take a renewed pride in our local areas following lockdown and keep our roadsides tidy, she said,

“Since lockdown began there has been a noticeable reduction in the amount of litter on our streets and roadsides. Our natural environment has flourished while we have been locked away; there has undoubtedly been less litter, we have cleaner air and wildlife is flourishing. I really hope that as restrictions ease over the coming weeks or months, we might continue this trend.”

“People don’t want to see our roads a mess with litter and recently they haven’t been. There are many lessons to be learned from lockdown. If any good at all can come out of this devastating situation it would be great if we could put an end to our throwaway culture once and for all. ”

SNP CANDIDATE NATALIE DON URGES PEOPLE TO APPLY FOR A POSTAL VOTE

Natalie Don, the SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West is calling on voters to apply for a postal vote ahead of the coming Scottish Parliament election - so that Scotland’s future is put firmly in Scotland’s hands, not Boris Johnson’s.

The SNP has launched a drive to encourage as many people as possible to register for a postal vote for May’s election to reduce risk from the virus.

Polling by the Electoral Commission found that up to 68% of Scotland’s 4 million voters could opt for postal votes this year – nearly four times the normal number.

SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don said: 

“With the Holyrood election getting ever closer, it’s vital that as many people as possible apply for a postal vote. It is especially important this year given the unprecedented circumstances we all find ourselves in due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and it is going to be the safest way to ensure your voice is heard.”

“With so much at stake, this will be the most important Scottish Parliamentary election ever, so it's essential that as many people who can vote do so.”

“I’m urging everyone in Renfrewshire North & West who is eligible to apply for a postal vote, encourage friends and family to do so, and make it both votes SNP. That is the only way to ensure that Scotland’s future is firmly in Scotland’s hands - not Boris Johnson’s.”

Apply for a form quickly and easily through the SNP website https://www.snp.org/postal-vote/

The deadline to apply for a postal vote for the elections on 6 May 2021 is 5pm on Tuesday 6 April. You must also be registered to vote by midnight on Monday 19 April.