NATALIE DON MSP HAILS SCOTLAND’S STATUS AS EUROPE’S THIRD TOP COUNTRY PRODUCING ELECTRICITY FROM RENEWABLES

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the latest figures showing that Scotland has been catapulted into the top three countries in Europe producing electricity from renewables.

Scottish Government figures for 2020 show 97% of electricity in Scotland is produced from renewables.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West and member of the Scottish Parliament’s Net Zero committee hailed the news that only Norway and Iceland produced more electricity from renewables than Scotland, putting the country ahead of the UK which as a whole generated just 35% of electricity from renewables.

Natalie Don MSP said: “Scotland is a world leader in producing electricity from renewable sources and we continue to increase our capacity to do so and provide a surplus to be exported to other countries around the world.

“In the year of COP26, Scotland will be on the world stage where we will be able to showcase our abilities to develop technologies and innovation to continue to produce clean energy for not only the people of Scotland to use but for it to be sold elsewhere.

“Despite this, investment in Scotland’s world-leading renewables sector is being held back from its full potential as the Tories at Westminster continue to charge extortionate transmission rates in Scotland, making it more expensive for firms to have access to the grid to export electricity.

“We cannot trust the Tories with Scotland’s renewables sector and to get the best out of it for the people of Scotland. The only way we can harness the full potential of the sector in Scotland is by becoming an independent country.”

NATALIE DON MSP URGES RENFREWSHIRE FAMILIES TO APPLY FOR INCREASED PAYMENT FOR YOUNG CHILDREN’S FOOD

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s increased support for low-income families in Renfrewshire to buy healthy food for children under three years old.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West is encouraging eligible families to apply for Best Start Foods payments which have risen this month up to £36 from £34 for children under one and from £17 to £18 during pregnancy and for one to three year olds.

Best Start Foods payments are administered by Social Security Scotland every four weeks on a pre-paid card to help pay for healthy food including eggs, milk, fruit, vegetables and pulses.

Parents who receive qualifying benefits, such as Income Support, income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit or income related Child Tax Credits or Universal Credit where earned income is £625 or less, can apply for the Best Start Foods payment.

Natalie Don MSP said: “With many families in Renfrewshire North and West facing financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and out-of-touch Westminster Tories removing the £20 Universal Credit uplift, I’m pleased to see the SNP has delivered its commitment to increase Best Start Foods payments within 100 days of forming the Scottish Government.

“I strongly encourage eligible parents in Renfrewshire to apply for the payment, which is part of the Scottish Government’s national mission to eradicate child poverty by offering vital support for low income families to buy healthy food for their children under three.”

For more information, go to www.mygov.scot/best-start-grant-best-start-foods or call Social Security Scotland on telephone: 0800 182 2222.

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT’S DELIVERY OF FREE BUS TRAVEL FOR RENFREWSHIRE’S YOUNGSTERS

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed Scottish Government confirmation that all residents under the age of 22 in Renfrewshire and across Scotland will be eligible for free bus travel from 31 January 2022.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West is hailing the government’s new scheme which, following legislative changes being introduced in the Scottish Parliament this summer, will be delivered in partnership with the Improvement Service, the National Entitlement Card Programme Office and Young Scot.

Natalie Don MSP said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted many youngsters in Renfrewshire North and West so it is pleasing to see the Scottish Government is changing legislation to extend free travel for under-19s to include those under 22 early next year.

“This will be a hugely positive step in removing barriers for young people travelling to their college, university or workplace.

“With many local residents also continuing to benefit from free bus travel through the Older and Disabled Persons Free Bus scheme, this important move clearly demonstrates the SNP Government’s commitment to a fairer, greener transport system which reduces inequalities and makes a valuable contribution towards protecting Scotland’s climate.”

NATALIE DON MSP URGES RENFREWSHIRE FAMILIES TO APPLY FOR LOW INCOME PANDEMIC SUPPORT PAYMENT

Natalie Don MSP is encouraging householders in Renfrewshire who are exempt from paying Council Tax or receive a reduction to apply for a £130 Low Income Pandemic Support Payment.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West is welcoming the Scottish Government’s funded support for people in Renfrewshire who qualify for a Council Tax reduction or are exempt from paying due to all household occupants being under 18, care leavers, or they have impaired intelligence and social functioning caused by a learning disability, a degenerative brain disorder (e.g. Alzheimer's disease), other forms of dementia or severe/chronic mental illness.

Natalie Don MSP said: “With many families in Renfrewshire North and West facing financial challenges as we recover from the global COVID-19 pandemic, I’m pleased to see the SNP Government is providing a £130 Low Income Pandemic Support Payment to help alleviate some of the pressure caused by increased costs and lost income.

“People who qualify for this payment should already have received a letter from Renfrewshire Council about their eligibility and they will receive a second letter in the upcoming weeks containing a reference number and instructions on how to submit a claim by completing a simple form on an online portal or over the telephone.

“I encourage everyone who is eligible for the Low Income Pandemic Support Payment to ensure they apply as soon as they receive their letter so that they can start benefiting from this crucial support to ease the ongoing financial burdens as Scotland recovers from the pandemic.”

When an applicant’s submission has been processed, payment via BACS will be made in the first instance within 14 days of the application having been approved. Other payment options will be available if the claimant does not have access to banking facilities.

For more information, go to www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/low-income-pandemic-payment

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES EXTRA £363,000 OF SCHOOL CLOTHES GRANT FUNDING TO SUPPORT RENFREWSHIRE’S FAMILIES

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment of an extra £363,000 funding to support low income families in Renfrewshire to buy schools clothes through the School Clothing Grant.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West welcomed the move by the Scottish Government to increase the School Clothing Grant to provide families with £120 for each child attending primary school and £150 for those in secondary school.

Parents who receive qualifying benefits, such as Income Support, income-based Jobseekers Allowance, income related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Council Tax reduction or income related Child Tax Credits, can apply to Renfrewshire Council for the grant.

Natalie Don MSP said: “The cost of buying school clothes and shoes can be very challenging for many families in Renfrewshire North and West so I’m pleased to see the Scottish Government has increased the School Clothing Grant to alleviate some of the financial pressures and help to ensure children can be best prepared for the new school term.

“This improved support for low-income families is another clear example of the SNP building a social security system built on dignity, fairness and respect, while out-of-touch Tory politicians at Westminster are making inhumane decisions like removing the £20 Universal Credit uplift which is estimated to push more than 60,000 people in Scotland – including 20,000 children – into avoidable poverty.

“I encourage eligible parents in Renfrewshire to apply for the School Clothing Grant via myaccount.renfrewshire.gov.uk for the start of the new school year.”

An estimated 5,498 children and young people in Renfrewshire will benefit from the minimum School Clothing Grant.

Parents in Renfrewshire can apply to Renfrewshire Council for the School Clothing Grant if their child, or the child they care for, goes to a Renfrewshire primary, secondary or special school and they receive any one of the following benefits:

• Income Support

• Jobseekers Allowance (Income Based)

• Employment & Support Allowance (Income Related)

• Child Tax Credit with a gross annual income below £16,105 with no element of

• Working Tax Credit

• Maximum Child Tax Credit and maximum Working Tax Credit with annual income below £7,500

• Support Under part V1 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

• Universal Credit with a monthly earned income of not more than £625

• Housing Benefit

• Council Tax reduction

• Working Tax Credit with an annual income under £16,105

• Child Tax Credit with an annual income under £16,105

NATALIE DON MSP ENCOURAGES KEY WORKERS TO REGISTER FOR RENFREW STORE’S DISCOUNTED FOOD

Natalie Don MSP is backing a Renfrew-based store providing many of Renfrewshire’s key workers with bargain priced food and household items, whilst also helping the environment by reducing the quantity of products going to waste.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West enjoyed a tour of Company Shop Renfrew in Blythswood Retail Park where she was informed by Gemma Edlin, Head of Retail for the Company Shop Group, about the business’s model.

Natalie Don MSP with Gemma Edlin, Head of Retail for the Company Shop Group, outside Company Shop Renfrew’s store.

Company Shop is a redistribution supermarket preventing good food and household products from going to waste. With heavily discounted products that are on average around 50% off the normal retail price, Company Shop Renfrew helps to stretch family budgets, whilst simultaneously tackling the challenge of surplus food and product waste.

The store is part of the UK’s leading surplus redistribution organisation, Company Shop Group, which works with all the major retailers, manufacturers and brands across the UK to redistribute surplus food and household products, including Ocado, Morrisons, Marks and Spencer, Nestlé, Greencore, Iceland and Tesco. All products sold within the store are in date but are deemed ‘surplus’ and may have otherwise gone to waste.

Membership is free and open to almost all key workers, including those working in the NHS, social care, emergency services, fast moving consumer goods supply chain, the armed forces and prison services, and temporarily to those working in schools and councils. In order to reach families most in need, Company Shop Renfrew has also extended its membership to those in receipt of means tested benefits.

Natalie Don MSP with Gemma Edlin, Head of Retail for the Company Shop Group, inside Company Shop Renfrew’s store.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I was delighted to visit Company Shop Renfrew and find out about the store’s progress in the 20 months since its launch – including its employment of 42 staff and their rapidly expanding customer base consisting of more than 48,000 locally registered members, making it the largest of the company’s premises in Scotland.  

“It was great to hear that membership has been temporarily extended during the COVID-19 pandemic to people employed by nurseries, schools, colleges, universities, local authorities and housing associations as well as those receiving means-tested benefits, so they too can also access substantially discounted food that would otherwise go to waste.

“I encourage people throughout Renfrewshire North and West who are eligible to become members to register with Company Shop Renfrew and start benefiting from being able to buy cheaper food products which are all in date but have been overstocked elsewhere or become surplus simply due to incorrect labelling or seasonal packaging.”

Gemma Edlin, Head of Retail for the Company Shop Group, said: “We were really pleased to welcome Natalie to Company Shop Renfrew and show her all of the great work that has been taking place since the store opened, benefitting local families and helping to tackle surplus in the area. We look forward to continuing to work with Natalie to support those in Renfrewshire and beyond.”

For information about applying for membership, visit www.companyshopgroup.co.uk/membership or call telephone: 01226 747 121.

Company Shop Renfrew is open 8am-8pm Mondays to Fridays, 8am-6pm on Saturday and 9am-6pm on Sundays.

NATALIE DON MSP IMPRESSED BY ERSKINE’S NEW DEVELOPMENT SUPPORTING VETERANS INTO SUSTAINED EMPLOYMENT AND LONG-TERM ACCOMODATION

Natalie Don MSP was impressed by the high standard of accommodation and new specialist services for armed service veterans of working age when visiting Erskine’s Veterans Village in Bishopton.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West enjoyed a tour led by Erskine’s Chief Executive, Ian Cumming, and Head of Facilities and Support Services, Dougie Beattie, around David Boyle Court, the charity’s recently opened £4 million state-of-the-art residential development.

The new facility is offering residents of the 24 apartments a two-year tenancy and a bespoke support package, tailored to suit each veteran’s needs, including volunteering, training, and work experience, as well as job opportunities with local business partners.

Natalie Don MSP said: “It is always a pleasure to visit Erskine’s Veterans Village and I was delighted to see the apartments and communal facilities in the amazing new David Boyle Court development as well as the refurbished workshop and leisure rooms in the Reid McEwan Activity Centre, which are both fantastic spaces providing engaging services and activities for veterans from throughout the west of Scotland.

“I was grateful to Ian and Dougie for showing me around David Boyle Court and explaining how the project’s person-centred employability support has already started to equip veterans of working age with the skills to move onto sustained employment and long-term accommodation in communities of their choice.

“I appreciated getting an insight into the employment challenges faced by especially younger veterans who often leave the armed services before developing their skillsets or gaining experiences. The training and work opportunities offered by this project will clearly be of great value in enhancing their career prospects as they adjust to civilian life. 

“Each time I visit Veterans Village, I become even more impressed by the charity’s innovative developments and the wonderful support provided by their staff and volunteers to improve everyday life for many people who have served the country!”

Wing Commander Ian Cumming, Chief Executive of Erskine, said: “We were pleased to welcome Natalie to Erskine’s Veterans Village and showcase some of the wide range of facilities and services we offer people who have left military service – including our brand new David Boyle Court project which is giving veterans time and space to get the best possible support to develop and showcase their talents, as they re-prepare for civilian life.”

For information about David Boyle Court, veterans can call telephone: 0141 814 4578 or email: accomodation@erskine.org.uk

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES EXTRA £45.8 MILLION FUNDING FOR NHS GREATER GLASGOW AND CLYDE

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment of an extra £45.8 million COVID-19 funding for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West welcomed the additional funding which will help the treatment of patients as well as supporting the local NHS remobilise as Scotland recovers from the pandemic.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I thank all NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde staff who have been under huge pressure treating and caring for patients from Renfrewshire North and West during the pandemic.

“I am pleased to see the Scottish Government commit £45.8 million of additional funding to support the health board with its efforts to treat patients, continue its ongoing roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccination programme and provide personal protective equipment for health and care workers.

“The money will also help towards the effective Test and Protect system and will play a vital role in supporting our NHS in its remobilisation programme during Scotland’s recovery.

“It is essential that our health services can be on a sure footing as we re-emerge from the pandemic in order that services which have been disrupted can restart smoothly. This additional support is the latest clear demonstration that the only political party in Scotland that can protect Scotland’s NHS is the SNP.”

This Scottish Government £380 million package allocated to health boards across Scotland comes on top of the £1.7 billion already provided to health boards and local health and social care partnerships last year.

NATALIE DON MSP ENCOURAGES YOUNG PEOPLE IN RENFREWSHIRE TO APPLY FOR A JOB START PAYMENT

Natalie Don MSP is urging young people in Renfrewshire starting a new job after a period of unemployment to apply for the Job Start Payment introduced by the Scottish Government.

The Job Start Payment, will help with the costs of starting a job – including travel, new clothes or childcare – is available to 16-24-year-olds who have been on Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit for six months or more.

Eligible young people can apply for the one-off payment worth £252.50, or £404 if they have children.

Young people who are care leavers can access the payment up to the age of 25 as long as they were receiving a qualifying benefit when they got their job offer. Young care leavers do not need to have been receiving their benefit for six months.

Natalie Don MSP said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted on young people across Renfrewshire North and West as it has been challenging to secure seasonal or permanent employment with many workplaces not functioning to their usual full capacity.

“For young people who do find employment, starting a new job can present other challenges such as the costs of travel or buying clothes, so I was delighted to see the Scottish Government introduce the Job Start Payment.

“I encourage all eligible young people in Renfrewshire who have been unemployed for a long time and recently found work to apply for this support which can ease financial burdens associated with starting a new job.”

For information about how to apply for a Job Start Payment, go to mygov.scot or call telephone: 0800 182 2222.

NATALIE DON MSP BACKS LAMONT FARM PROJECT’S APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Natalie Don MSP is backing a call for volunteers from a local farming project which educates around 10,000 people each year about animal care, welfare and husbandry.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West visited Lamont Farm Project on Barrhill Road, Erskine, where manager, Yvonne Elliot, gave a tour featuring the amazing sights and sounds of a variety of animals at the site.

The farm hosts larger animals including llamas, goats, horses, donkeys and ponies down to smaller furry creatures like rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets. There are also plenty of birds and exotic reptiles to see too.

Natalie Don MSP said: "As part of my work getting out and about in the constituency, I was delighted to enjoy a lovely visit to Lamont Farm Project where I appreciated Yvonne for taking the time to show me around and introduce all the beautiful animals!

“It’s a fantastic wee place and a great day out for kids right here on our doorstep in Renfrewshire.

“Despite relying on only small grants, donations and contributions from individuals or groups via their animal sponsorship scheme to keep them going, Yvonne and the project’s dedicated volunteers do wonderful work on the land and looking after the animals.

“As someone with charity volunteering experience myself, I encourage anyone in Renfrewshire North and West with spare time on your hands to contact Yvonne and find out about the many volunteering roles currently being offered to see if you can play a part in helping the project thrive in the months ahead.”

Yvonne Elliot said: “We were pleased to welcome Natalie Don MSP and showcase the wide range of animals and activities we have available for visitors throughout the summer.

“As a charity depending entirely on generous donations and the great efforts our volunteers, we are always looking to benefit from fundraising opportunities and welcoming more people giving their time.

“Right now, we are especially keen to hear from people who can offer particular skills like joinery, animal husbandry, administration, poster design or fundraising.

“If you want to contribute towards rewarding teamwork on our project, increase your knowledge about animal welfare and meet new people, please don’t hesitate to contact us!”

For information about volunteering opportunities at Lamont Farm Project, call telephone: 0141 812 5335 or email: farm@lamontfarm.plus.com

Bookings are not needed to visit the farm and there is no charge to enter, although a small donation of £1.50 (adult) and £1 (child) is requested to help towards the care and welfare of the animals.

The farm is open between 10am-4pm on Saturdays to Thursdays, with visitors advised to arrive no later than 2.30pm.

NATALIE DON MSP IMPRESSED BY GLASGOW AIRPORT’S DEVELOPMENTS

Natalie Don MSP was impressed to see the steps Glasgow Airport has been taking to keep passengers safe in the COVID-19 pandemic and minimising environmental impacts during a tour today.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West enjoyed both behind the scenes and frontline views of the airport’s facilities whilst being guided through the terminal buildings and airfield by Operations Director, Ronald Leitch.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I was grateful to Ronald for giving me a tour of Glasgow Airport, including a rare visit to the runway which would normally not be possible at this time of year.

“It was very impressive to see developments – such as the COVID-19 testing centre – keeping passengers safe during the pandemic and I was also pleased to discover all electricity used in the airport is from renewable sources and carbon neutrality status has been achieved for emissions under its direct control.

“As the airport is a major employer of Renfrewshire North and West constituents and hugely important to Scotland’s economy, I was eager to visit as soon as possible and I am keen to see the airport's recovery taking place in the months ahead.”

NATALIE DON MSP TAKES ON TWO KEY SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT COMMITTEES ROLES

Natalie Don MSP has landed two key roles in the Scottish Parliament after being elected as the Deputy Convenor of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee and a member of the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee.

In the absence of the Convenor of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee, the MSP for Renfrewshire North and West will chair meetings which will consider a range of important issues including welfare policy and social security, poverty action measures, human rights, the third sector, refugees and asylum, tackling inequalities as well as violence against women and girls.

Having previously served as the Depute Convenor of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board, Natalie Don will also build on her extensive local experience at national level in the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee which will examine policies on climate crisis and environmental protection, biodiversity, sustainable development, fuel poverty, renewable energy, flood prevention and transport strategy.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the vital work of two of the Scottish Parliament’s most important committees which scrutinise government policies on a variety of issues which impact on everyday life across the country as well as global efforts to tackle the climate emergency.

“I’m looking forward to taking on the Deputy Convenorship of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee because work ensuring people-centred policies are developed to make our country fairer and improve the lives of Scotland’s citizens – including low-income families and children experiencing poverty – is extremely close to my heart.

“As someone with a real-life understanding of just how tiresome, stressful and cruel welfare application processes can be, I will reflect on my personal experiences during my committee duties and listen very carefully to the views of my constituents, anti-poverty campaigners and other stakeholders.

“With Glasgow hosting COP26 in November, I am really excited about the SNP Government’s plans for Scotland to play our part as a responsible global citizen to lead the world into the net zero age.

“In my previous role on Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board, I was proud to be involved in bringing real change to Renfrewshire, declaring a climate emergency over two years ago and pioneering Team Up to Clean Up, one of the Council’s most successful campaigns, which highlights the importance of our natural environment and encourages community involvement and action.

“It is a privilege to now have a parliamentary role overseeing national policies aimed at overcoming the climate crisis which, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, remains the greatest challenge facing the planet.”

NATALIE DON MSP ENCOURAGES RENFREWSHIRE STUDENTS TO ACCESS SUMMER FUNDING TO REDUCE FINANCIAL PRESSURES

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment of £20 million to help alleviate financial pressures during the summer experienced by students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following concerns raised by constituents, the MSP for Renfrewshire North and West highlighted via a parliamentary question that some students are at a disadvantage to their peers, based on personal or family financial circumstances rather than learning ability, and cannot afford take up summer volunteering or training opportunities relevant to their courses.

Students, many of whom have already lost crucial part-time jobs in the service sector due to the pandemic, are also likely to face increased difficulties in securing seasonal employment because of the lower number of tourists visiting Scotland.

Natalie Don MSP said: “The pandemic has severely impacted many students in Renfrewshire North and West and it has magnified the financial burdens that some will face during the summer.

“Many students find themselves in debt over the summer months and not all have the capability to find work, stay in their accommodation or take up volunteering or training opportunities relevant to their degree as they simply cannot afford to do so.

“I am pleased that the Minister for Higher Education and Further Education has committed £20 million to help alleviate the financial pressures experienced by students in the summer and confirmed a review of this support will take place within the SNP Government's first 100 days in office.

“As the SNP continue to prioritise improving the attainment gap in Scotland, providing this summer support to students is a vital positive step towards achieving this.

“I encourage students in Renfrewshire experiencing financial hardship to apply directly to their college or university’s Coronavirus Discretionary Fund to benefit from the summer support package.”

This latest funding takes total Scottish Government support for students since the start of the pandemic to more than £96 million via hardship funds, digital access, mental health support and assistance for student associations.

NATALIE DON MSP HAILS SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT’S AMBITIOUS ANTI-POVERTY SCOTTISH CHILD PAYMENT SUPPORTING 1200 LOCAL FAMILIES

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed Scottish Government estimations that around 1200 families in Renfrewshire North and West will benefit from the Scottish Child Payment this year (2021/22).

Qualifying low-income parents and carers are provided with a Scottish Child Payment of £40 every four weeks for each child under six by the Scottish Government’s Social Security Scotland agency.

The benefit, which is unique to Scotland within the UK, has been hailed as a potential ‘game-changer’ by anti-poverty campaigners in the fight against child poverty.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West welcomed news in response to her parliamentary question today (Wednesday 16th June) that the payment is planned to be fully rolled out to children under the age of 16 by the end of 2022, subject to data being provided by the UK Government’s Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) to enable Social Security Scotland to make top-up payments.

Natalie Don MSP said: “The Scottish Child Payment will make a massive difference in helping lift many children out of poverty in my constituency. However, the UK Government’s welfare policies are having the opposite effect.

“The Children’s Commissioner for Scotland said that if the UK Government scraps the £20 Universal Credit uplift in September, this will effectively knockout the benefits the Scottish Child Payment brings into families.

“The UK Government should start matching the SNP Government’s ambitions by introducing anti-poverty measures, instead of cuts. The scale of the Tories’ benefit cuts makes mitigation by the Scottish Government unsustainable and one of the reasons why we need full powers in the Scottish Parliament to tackle child poverty.”

By 2023/24 – the first full year of the Scottish Child Payment for under 16s – the Scottish Government estimates the number of families receiving the support in Renfrewshire North and West could increase to around 2,100.

NATALIE DON MSP HOPES RENFREWSHIRE’S YOUNG PEOPLE WILL BE ALL SMILES AT PROSPECT OF FREE DENTAL CARE

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed a Scottish Government announcement today (Wednesday 16th June) which will mean all young people in Renfrewshire aged 18 to 25 will benefit from free NHS dental care from the end of August, subject to approval by MSPs.

The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West welcomed the move to include all 18 to 25 year-olds, which goes further than the SNP’s original commitment to remove dental charges for care-experienced young people within the government’s first 100 days.

Natalie Don MSP said: “I was thrilled with the SNP’s manifesto pledge to abolish all NHS dentistry charges over the course of this Parliament. Dental charges can be a huge expense for many people and families, with pain often going untreated due to the lack of affordability.

“I am extremely pleased that our first step towards this goal includes the removal of dental charges for all young people aged between 18 and 25. Young people have experienced a disproportionate economic impact during the pandemic, which is recognised by the SNP Government, and I am delighted that this move will remove a cost barrier that may have prevented local youngsters from accessing dental care.

“I hope this news bring smiles to the faces of 18-25 year olds across Renfrewshire North and West who, from later this year, will be able to be treated to maintain or improve their oral health without needing to be concerned about the affordability of dental services.”

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.”