NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT FUNDING SUPPORTING SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR RENFREWSHIRE’S YOUNG PEOPLE

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed an announcement that Renfrewshire Council is to receive £436,000 from the Scottish Government to provide more opportunities for children and young people to play and socialise this summer.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West welcomed the support which will specifically target those aged up to 25 from low income households who may otherwise struggle to access programmes of summer activities being run by local and national organisations during the holidays.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I welcome the SNP Government’s commitment to enabling youngsters, many of whom have been hit hard by the pandemic, to get more chances to participate in social activities, games or sports throughout the summer.

“Unfortunately, children and young people across Renfrewshire North and West have not been able to meet up with friends or enjoy outdoor activities as much as they usually would in the last 15 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s important we can take steps to help improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

“Young people have often said that supporting their mental health should be a government priority in Scotland’s recovery, and I am delighted that the £436,000 being invested in activities will deliver positive impacts in helping Renfrewshire’s youngsters to reconnect, play and socialise this summer.”

NATALIE DON MSP PLEDGES TO ‘FIGHT FOR PEOPLE IN POVERTY’ DURING FIRST SPEECH IN PARLIAMENT

Natalie Don MSP highlighted that Renfrewshire North and West residents make the constituency such a wonderful place to live during her first speech in the Scottish Parliament and pledged to fight to improve life and opportunities for everyone experiencing poverty.

Speaking in the chamber during the Scottish Government’s Tackling Poverty and Building a Fairer Country debate today (Tuesday 8 June), the SNP member started her speech by thanking her family, campaign team and voters who enabled her to have the honour of representing constituents in the Scottish Parliament.

Natalie Don MSP continued: “I’m proud of the huge steps the Scottish Government is taking to eradicate poverty with actual goals, targets and policies that benefit people’s lives. There is certainly more to do but we are raising the bar through the Scottish Child Payment, free school meals, Best Start Payments, widening access to childcare, removing financial barriers to education, empowering and enabling women to take up employment.

“I am thrilled that the SNP won an election standing on bold policies such as a Citizens Basic Income and a Minimum Citizens Wage Guarantee – policies that will genuinely make our country fairer and make a difference to people’s lives.

“While we give to families with the Scottish Child Payment, Westminster then takes this away from the same families, with the £20 uplift to Universal Credit being removed, a move set to plunge even more children in this country into poverty.

“Poverty is not a choice and it is certainly not inevitable either. It is a lifestyle inflicted on people. No child should grow up hungry in Scotland.

“We have food banks and homeless people while billions are spent on palaces, boats and nuclear missiles. That’s 21st century Great Britain for you. We will never see an end to child poverty while tied to the UK government.

“The Scottish Government can make bold move after bold move, but we cannot mitigate everything. That is why it must be our mission in our Scottish Parliament to give the people what they voted for in an independence referendum, so we can get these vital powers away from the out of touch politicians in London and into the hands of the people of Scotland.

“I want to say to anyone who has or is experiencing poverty or going to the food banks right now, any child that doesn’t understand why it’s happening to them, to anyone that thinks the system is against them, please don’t give up.

“Until we see an end to child poverty in an independent Scotland, I can promise you that I’ve got your back in here, I am fighting for you.”

Renfrewshire North and West constituents requiring support can raise a case with Natalie Don MSP by emailing: natalie.don.msp@parliament.scot or calling telephone: 0131 348 5085.

FORMER QUARRIERS VOLUNTEER NATALIE DON MSP LOOKS FORWARD TO CHARITY’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Natalie Don is looking forward to helping a Quarriers Village based national charity celebrate an amazing 150 years of service later this year – especially as she is a former volunteer! 

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West visited Quarriers, one of Scotland’s leading social care charities, to be updated about their range of services and plans to mark the special anniversary for the organisation in November. 

Natalie Don MSP said: "I was delighted to visit Quarriers for the first time as the local constituency MSP because their cause is very close to my heart.  

“As a former volunteer for the charity, I am well aware of the life-enhancing practical care and support they provide for vulnerable children, adults and families who face extremely challenging circumstances so it was great to have an early opportunity to catch up with Ron and Carol.  

“It was inspiring to hear about how dedicated Quarriers staff and volunteers are overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic to continue offering specialist support for adults affected by learning disabilities, complex physical disabilities or autism; residential childcare and resources for families; as well as help and advice for young people with addiction or self-harm issues. 

“With the 150th anniversary of William Quarrier founding the charity coming up this year, I can’t wait to see the exciting plans to commemorate the special occasion coming to fruition.” 

Ron Culley, Chief Executive Officer for Quarriers said: “We were pleased to welcome Natalie back to Quarriers and bring her up to date with our experiences of leading the charity through the tough times of the pandemic and our preparations to celebrate reaching the milestone of 150 years. 

For information about Quarriers, call telephone: 01505 612224 or visit www.quarriers.org.uk 

FAMILIES IN RENFREWSHIRE NORTH AND WEST URGED TO APPLY FOR BEST START GRANT

Natalie Don MSP is urging eligible families in Renfrewshire North and West to apply for this year’s Best Start Grant School Age Payment, as applications open today.

The payment, which is only available in Scotland, is open to families who get tax credits or certain other benefits and have a child who was born between 1st March 2016 and 28th February 2017.

It is part of five family payments delivered by Social Security Scotland that also include: Best Start Foods, Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment, Best Start Grant Early Learning Payment and Scottish Child Payment.

Best Start Foods payments are set to increase to £4.50 per week on 1st August to support low income families to buy healthy food for children under the age of three.

Commenting, Natalie Don MSP said: “The SNP Scottish Government is working to ensure that every child across Scotland has the best start in life and these payments, which have been described by anti-poverty charities as ‘game-changing’ are a crucial part of our effort to build a fairer, more equal Scotland.

“As part of this work the Scottish Government is set to increase Best Start Foods payments within its first 100 days in government – the SNP is also committed to doubling the Scottish Child Payment to £20 a week as soon as practicable.

“The Best Start payments are absolutely vital in our efforts to tackle child poverty in Renfrewshire North and West and across Scotland, with around £5,000 of support being provided by the time a child turns six.

“I would urge all families who are eligible to apply to do so as soon as possible.”

Natalie Don Welcomes SNP Summer Support for Students

Local SNP candidate for Renfrewshire North and West has welcomed the announcement from the SNP that they will provide a £20 million Summer Student Support Hardship Fund to help students who cannot find work and do not receive discretionary funds through the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) during the summer months. Last year the Scottish Government provided £11.4 million that was made available to students that found themselves in financial difficulty due to COVID.

It comes amid rapidly growing concern over the situation faced by those doing university and college courses. Earlier this year, the National Union for Students (NUS) highlighted that as many as 14 per cent of students had been turning to foodbanks due to the pandemic. A survey published by NUS also found that three in five respondents said COVID was having some degree of impact upon their income.

This funding will be followed by a review of the future of summer student support in general. This announcement came as part of the SNP’s 100 days action plan. The 100 days plan sets out the key actions to be taken as a new government eases COVID restrictions in Scotland, the initial steps an SNP government will take for NHS recovery, how an SNP government will protect jobs, and action to support children and young people.

SNP candidate Natalie Don said:

“As the SNP continue to prioritise improving the attainment gap in Scotland, providing this summer support for students is a really positive step towards achieving this. Not all students have access to the bank of mum or dad and not all students have the capability to take up training opportunities in the summer as they simply cannot afford to do so. I believe this puts some students at a disadvantage based on their financial situation rather than actual learning ability. People access further education at different stages in life and the reality is that due to a lack of summer financial support many students drop out of college or university.

“Studying can be one of the most stressful times of our lives and students should be able to stress over essays and exams not over housing benefit or universal credit. Many students find themselves in debt over the summer months and when they get their SAAS payment at the start of term to buy books and learning materials the harsh reality many students find themselves in is paying back loans or landlords.

“This funding has been implemented due to the pandemic and the sudden awareness that students cannot apply for certain benefits between terms. It should never be assumed that a student can just simply find a job as this is not guaranteed and has become even more difficult due to COVID.

“I was really pleased to see that a review of the future of student summer support is planned in the SNP’s very sensible 100 days action plan to lead Scotland’s recovery. As a long time campaigner for this support through my time at university it means a great deal to me to see this summer support maintained and if elected I would like to highlight the need for this funding to be made permanent for Scotland’s students.”

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.”