Natalie Don MSP’s Office joins Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme

“I am delighted that my constituency office is now part of the Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme – although I was surprised that we appear to be one of the first such venues in the whole of Renfrewshire,” said Natalie Don MSP, commenting on her office signing up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme

Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland (BFS) is a national scheme which businesses can sign up to for free. Backed by the Scottish Government and run by local health boards, the scheme aims to help businesses and people who breastfeed know their rights and responsibilities.

The Scottish Infant Feeding Survey 2017 identified that mums understood they could breastfeed in public areas however, almost half of the mums lacked confidence in doing so. The Scottish Government want establishments to show support by joining the scheme and display the logo which would provide reassurance a breastfeeding mum would be welcome.

Businesses in the scheme display a logo (attached) which lets people know that the business:
•    is part of the scheme,
•    understands the law, and
•    supports breastfeeding on their premises.

Natalie Don MSP supporting Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland

Natalie Don MSP added:

“Breastfeeding mothers need support and many women face anxiety or embarrassment about feeding their babies in public. From my own experience, it can be extremely daunting and simply having that reassurance that the space you are entering is welcoming of breastfeeding and that staff or volunteers have a level of understanding will help many women.

“The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme is all about ensuring breastfeeding mothers are welcome and have a safe space to feed their babies. You now have that with my office and whether you are visiting the office or just need some peace and privacy, we will make you feel welcome and pop the kettle on.

“Although I am proud that my office staff have completed the relevant training to ensure my office joins the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme I was disappointed that there are so few places in Renfrewshire signed up to the scheme.

“I hope that other local businesses, organisations and community spaces will now consider signing up to the scheme. In an effort to get more places signed up, I intend to reach out to a range of associated businesses within Renfrewshire to proactively encourage them to sign up to the scheme and display their support for breastfeeding mothers.

“I hope this will be a positive step for breastfeeding here in Renfrewshire.”

You can check which organisations are signed up to the scheme by viewing the interactive map at https://bit.ly/BreastfeedingFriendlyScotland

More information on how to sign up to  the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme is available from the local health board at: healthimprovement.renfrewshire@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

“Lifesaver” Scottish Child Payment helping reduce Child Poverty

New research has found that the SNP's Scottish Child Payment is contributing to reducing child poverty in Scotland - with one of the parents describing it as a “lifesaver.”

The interim evaluation by Ipsos Mori looked at the impact of the new benefit introduced in Scotland by the SNP in February 2021 which was described as 'an absolute game changer in the fight to end child poverty' by anti-poverty charities. 

The findings of this latest evaluation show:
 

·       Scottish Child Payment and its eligibility criteria are well understood

·       Scottish Child Payment is taken up 

·       The application is clear and easy

·       Applications are processed in a timely manner

·       Awareness is raised about other forms of support

·       Clients feel they have been treated with dignity, fairness and respect

The evaluation states that the payment "helps to reduce the financial pressure on households, and generally makes a positive difference to peoples’ lives." It goes on to underline that "Scottish Child Payment has contributed to reducing food poverty" and highlights that 'the application process is considered quick and straightforward' overall.

Natalie Don MSP

The Scottish Child Payment is set to increase to £25 per week and be rolled out to all children up to 16 years old by the end of the year.

Commenting Natalie Don MSP said:

"It is incredibly encouraging to see more evidence that the SNP's Scottish Child Payment is making a positive difference to families and children across Scotland - and that positive impact it is having will only grow when the Scottish Government increases the payment to £25 per week and is extended to under 16 year olds.

"The Scottish Child Payment was always going to play a substantial role in our fight to end child poverty but, at a time when the pressures on households budgets is increasing dramatically, it is undeniably providing a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable households in our communities.

"When it comes to tackling poverty, the difference between the determination of SNP Government and the shameful silence of Westminster - and both Tory leadership contenders - is becoming starker by the day. 

"The SNP will continue to use the powers at its disposal to make a difference, but progress is clearly being held back by the inaction of the UK government. The only way to build a fairer, wealthier and happier country is for Scotland to have the full welfare and tax powers of an independent country."

Interim Evaluation of Scottish Child Payment

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Warmer Homes Scotland support

“The Scottish Government has announced changes to the eligibility criteria for the Warmer Homes Scotland scheme which could help around 110,000 more households across Scotland”, said Natalie Don MSP.

These changes, which started on Monday 1st August, mean that more people can access support from Warmer Homes Scotland including

• People aged 16 or over, with a passport benefit, can now access support from Warmer Homes Scotland for energy-saving home improvements like insulation and draughtproofing to help make their home easier to keep warm.

• People aged 60 or over, with a passport benefit, can now access the full range of Warmer Homes Scotland support and people aged 75 or over without a working heating system no longer need to be in receipt of a benefit to access support.

• With the recent changes to disability benefits in Scotland, Warmer Homes Scotland eligible benefits will also include Adult Disability Payment and Child Disability Payment.

You must have lived in your home as your main residence for 12 months or more, the home must be assessed to be of poor energy performance, and it must meet the tolerable standard.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“Warmer Homes Scotland is designed to help people make their homes warmer and more comfortable by installing a range of energy saving improvements. The Scottish Government is helping homeowners and private sector tenants struggling to heat their home, who have lived in their home for at least twelve months, and who meet the eligibility criteria.

“These changes to the eligibility requirements mean that more people will benefit from the support from Warmer Homes Scotland.”

“With the Tory created Cost of Living Crisis everyone is struggling to pay their bills, whether that’s fuel costs or food bills, everything is rising and making it difficult to make ends meet.  This support will be welcomed by many residents in my constituency.”

More details on the eligibility criteria can be found on the Warmer Homes Scotland website (https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/find-funding-grants-and-loans/warmer-homes-scotland/) or by calling them on 0800 808 2282.

Warmer Homes Scotland is a Scottish Government funded fuel poverty scheme. Home Energy Scotland oversee the Warmer Homes Scotland scheme which is designed to help people make their homes warmer and more comfortable by installing a range of energy efficiency measures

Natalie Don MSP highlights water safety at River Gryffe

Natalie Don MSP is encouraging people to take care of the safety buoys that have been installed along various parts of the River Gryffe in Bridge of Weir and Houston.

The life belts, which were donated by the Glasgow Humane Society were installed after a campaign led by local residents following the tragic death of 13 year old William McNally in Houston.  The lifebelts also include new GPS signage that can be used to confirm the exact location of an incident quickly to the emergency services.

The MSP has received complaints from concerned locals that following a period of nice weather, there have been instances where the life belts have been vandalised and thrown into the water to be found further downstream.

Natalie Don MSP said:

“These life belts have been installed after a hard-fought campaign by local people and it is disappointing that people aren’t taking this seriously. This equipment could be a matter of life or death so they absolutely have to be left intact and where they are supposed to be.

“The buoys have been installed at key locations on the river, places where people are known to get in the water. With the good weather, more people have been hanging around these areas but if you are, please respect why these buoys have been installed in the first place, to prevent any further tragedies in our waters. The water can be dangerous for anyone. Underwater currents, temperature and depth can all cause difficulties, even if you think you are a strong swimmer. So please, leave this safety equipment where it should be.”

Local resident and member of the BoW Angling Club John Blair has also expressed concern about the treatment of this safety equipment, and commented:

“This is totally unacceptable behaviour when we have already had tragedies on the river. Last week I replaced one of the lifebelts after finding it further downstream but there is currently a lifebelt missing from a spot in Bridge of Weir, hopefully it will be picked up downstream, but this can’t go on. The lifebelts need to be kept in place in case of an emergency and they are in these exact spots for a reason.

“They shouldn’t be tampered with either, people are messing with the ropes and some of the ropes on them in their current state, would need to be untangled before use which would be of no use in an emergency. People need to respect the reasons that these are in place and look after them.

“If you witness anyone tampering with these, please report to the police immediately.”

If you see public equipment that is damaged or missing, contact Renfrewshire Council: ei@renfrewshire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 0380 (option 1).

Contact the Police on 101 if you have any concerns about access to unsafe waterways or antisocial behaviour.

Natalie Don MSP welcomes the re-dedication of Renfrew War Memorial

“This is an important day for the people of Renfrew, remembering those who gave their lives in both World Wars and the Falklands conflict with the re-dedication of the town’s war memorial”, said Natalie Don MSP, the constituency MSP for the town of Renfrew.

Natalie Don MSP lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament welcoming the re-dedication ceremony of the Renfrew War Memorial and was in attendance at the event on Tuesday 2nd August 2022. 

To mark the 100th anniversary of the original unveiling of the memorial a series of events including the re-dedication are taking place.  This includes a small exhibition at Renfrew museum from 2nd – 5th August.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“I would like to congratulate Renfrew Community Council for all the hard work they’ve put into organising today’s event.  This is a very important event for the town, and one that respects the town’s history and those who died in times of conflict.

Natalie Don MSP alongside Provost Lorraine Cameron at Rededication of Renfrew War Memorial

“Renfrew is a close-knit town and those on the memorial’s Roll of Honour would have been well known in their local communities.

“It was a moving ceremony and I was pleased to meet with community council members after the event to thank them for organising this re-dedication.”

Natalie Don MSP’s motion to the Scottish Parliament

New Indy paper highlights democratic case for Independence

Natalie Don MSP says Westminster politicians can’t deny the choice of people in Renfrewshire North and West

SNP MSP Natalie Don has warned Westminster politicians that they cannot deny the choice of the people of Renfrewshire North and West by ignoring democracy, as the second in the series of papers on independence is published by the Scottish Government.

The latest paper, titled ‘Renewing Democracy through Independence’, outlines how Scotland’s voice has been ignored at key points in recent decades - from the failure to invest North Sea oil and gas revenues like other neighbouring nations did, to the crippling decade of Tory austerity and delivering a hard Brexit that Scotland overwhelmingly rejected.

In contrast, the paper also shows where the Scottish Parliament has taken decisions within the limited powers it currently has, it has delivered transformative change for the people of Renfrewshire North and West with policies like the Scottish Child Payment, Minimum Unit Pricing and being one of the first nations in the world to provide free period products.

Natalie Don MSP outside the Scottish Parliament

Renfrewshire North and West MSP Natalie Don said:

“This latest paper lays bare that when decisions are made by Westminster, it’s the people of Renfrewshire North and West that lose out.

“Hundreds of billions in oil revenue squandered by the UK Treasury, a crippling decade of Tory austerity and the economic and social disaster that is Brexit is the legacy of Westminster control faced by families in Renfrewshire North and West.

“Decisions about Scotland should be taken by those who live here - not by politicians we don’t vote for or unelected Lords. That’s why Scotland needs independence - and Westminster politicians cannot continue to stand in the way of the democratic right of the people of Renfrewshire North and West to choose a better future.

“There will soon come a time when the opposition will have to engage in the substance of the independence argument. It will then be for them to explain why Westminster control would be better than the full powers of independence where Scotland takes our own decisions.”

Scottish Government paper:

https://www.gov.scot/news/renewing-scotlands-democracy/

Natalie Don MSP highlights access to free period products

“With schools, colleges and universities going into their summer recesses, and the ever increasing cost of living it’s important for people to know that they can still access free period products from local venues across Renfrewshire,” said Natalie Don MSP.

Free period products are available in toilets and accessible toilets in a number of Renfrewshire and ONE REN venues including Renfrew Town Hall, Erskine Library and the Cargill Hall.  A mobile app which was launched earlier this year can also allow users to identify locations across Renfrewshire and Scotland where period products can be accessed for free.

The PickupMyPeriod app currently links to over 700 venues in many communities where free products are available – and the number is expected to grow where further local authorities join the app. Scotland was the first country in the world to make period products widely available for free – firstly in schools, colleges and universities, then followed by wider access in communities. The PickupMyPeriod app builds on this world-leading work.

Commenting on the launch of the app, Social Justice Secretary Shona Robison said:

“The app is a fantastic tool that will help everyone who wants to access free period products for themselves, a family member or friend to easily find them in many places across Scotland.

“I’m thankful for the support of local authorities in the implementation of access to free period products in Scotland. Young women and girls have been crucial in developing the best ways to access products to meet their needs and I’m grateful to them for sharing their views.”

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP added:

“With schools, colleges and universities going into their summer recesses and with the increase in the cost of living many women and girls may have difficulties accessing their free period products, that’s why it’s essential that information on relevant venues is so important.

“As we look towards the implementation of the Period Products Act, I am delighted that work undertaken on period dignity both locally and nationally continues to progress and welcome this new app as a tool which can support this.”

PickUpMyPeriod app available from: https://myperiod.org.uk/

Background

The Period Products (Free Provision) Scotland Act 2021 (“the Act”) places duties on Local Authorities and education providers to make period products obtainable free of charge for anyone who needs them. The Act will come fully into force by January 2023 at the latest and will ensure that everyone in Scotland who needs them can have reasonably convenient access to period products, free of charge, as and when they are required. In advance of this, free products continue to be available through Local Authorities’ voluntary provision and through the Period Products in Schools (Scotland) Regulations 2020.

Building on Local Authorities’ voluntary provision, Scottish Government funded Hey Girls, through their Education arm ‘My Period’, to develop an app (PickupMyPeriod) that allows users to identify locations where period products can be accessed for free in Scotland. The app is available to all Local Authorities to input their locations and, so far, the majority of Authorities are involved. For locations not listed on the app, information on how to access free period products should be available from your Local Authority.

Natalie Don MSP congratulates local group taking over Teucheen Wood

“I was delighted to visit Teucheen Wood, which has been run by Inchinnan Development Trust since December 2021”, said Natalie Don MSP

Driven by residents’ concerns, Inchinnan Development Trust (IDT) finalised the private purchase of Teucheen Wood in December 2021 to allow for community ownership and management. The previous owners of the woodland proposed to sell on the open market but following engagement with Inchinnan Community Council, the woodland was removed from sale and the process to purchase the woodland began.   Covering 5.85 hectares, Teucheen Wood is a long-established woodland of plantation origin and has been standing since at least 1860.

IDT are in the process of developing a woodland management plan, with initial works focussing on improvements to accessibility and safety in the woodland through clearance and the creation of new paths.

Future plans will look to explore the educational and recreation potential of the woodland in an effort to further engage the community through volunteer work, outdoor learning, woodland workshops and health-focussed walking sessions.  A ‘Friends of Teucheen Wood’ group has been formed to ensure that this cherished woodland is well looked after and that the community have an opportunity to get involved in making a difference. 

Natalie Don MSP with members of Inchinnan Development Trust and local volunteers

Natalie Don MSP added:

“It’s been great to visit Teucheen Wood and see the difference that community ownership is making for this woodland, as well as hearing the ambitious plans for the future.

“IDT held a fantastic open day at Teucheen Wood earlier this year to celebrate the woodland coming into community ownership, and it’s great to see the plans they have for the future, not only preserving the woodland but opening it up for woodland workshops and walking sessions. It was also great to hear about plans for the recently acquired India Tyres Playing fields

“I would like to commend everyone at IDT and the Friends of Teucheen Wood group for their efforts on turning this area into a space for the whole community to enjoy.

Natalie Don MSP welcomes new Fireworks legislation

“This new legislation will restrict the use of fireworks and pyrotechnics, reducing the harm caused by them and making our communities safer,” said Natalie Don MSP.

The Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles (Scotland) Bill, which was approved in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 29th June, seeks to regulate the use and sale of fireworks and pyrotechnic articles whilst also ensuring safe enjoyment of them in communities.  It will be a criminal offence to buy, possess or use fireworks without licence, or to supply fireworks to a person without a licence. It will also be an offence to give fireworks or pyrotechnic articles to a child or buy them on behalf of a child.

The law, however, also limits the use of fireworks to certain holidays and festivals including Hogmanay, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, Vaisakhi and Chinese New Year.

The Bill is an important step towards reducing the burden on emergency services in preparing for, and responding to, firework related incidents. Common fireworks related injuries affect hands and heads, with mortars and rockets responsible for the majority of serious eye and hand injuries. However, sparklers, fountains and firecrackers are also frequent sources of injury.  Fireworks related injuries often require specialist treatment and surgical intervention and can sometimes be fatal.

Data from Police Scotland indicates that around 900 ‘firework’ related incidents were reported in the 2019-20 firework period, and there is no clear evidence that the number of firework related incidents reported to the police is changing.

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP added:

“Reducing the negative impact of fireworks and pyrotechnics on communities across Scotland is at the heart of this new legislation. This Bill will ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“Many pet owners experience first-hand the terrifying effect fireworks have on their companions. Introducing restrictions on the days and times fireworks can be set off will help people to better prepare for comforting their pet. We know that the unpredictability of when fireworks may go off is a major concern for people.

“This legislation is strongly supported by the public, with consultations from 2021 and 2019 highlighting that 92% agreed to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s and 84% backing the introduction of a fireworks licensing system.”

The new rules created by the Bill will be enforced by trading standards or Police Scotland.  

Natalie Don MSP condemns impact of benefit cap

“528 households in Renfrewshire have been impacted since the introduction of the Tory benefit cap,” said Natalie Don MSP, commenting on the release of new figures which revealed the number of people affected by this callous policy. 

The latest numbers from the Department of Work and Pensions showed that 5281 households in Renfrewshire were subject to the benefit cap from its introduction until the latest figures as of February 2022. 

The SNP Scottish Government is spending £83 million on mitigating the UK government’s bedroom tax and benefit cap for people affected in Scotland and to support them through the Tory made cost of living crisis. 

Natalie Don MSP added:

“Ever since its introduction in 2013 this callous policy has done nothing but punish the most vulnerable and severely limit their ability to provide for themselves and their families, and now couldn’t be a worse time for its effects to be felt and its limitations imposed on more households. 

“As a Tory-made cost of living crisis ravages households across the country, it is important we look at ways of supporting people financially, not constructing more barriers and taking money out of their pockets - it’s long past time this disgraceful policy went. 

“In Scotland, the Scottish Government is taking the steps it can to help families affected by these policies, but it shouldn’t have to mitigate damaging Tory austerity, nor should its efforts in tackling poverty be dragged backwards. 

“With the full powers of independence, the Scottish Government can get on with the work of supporting Scottish people through tough times without the need to continually clean up after the Tories and their dangerous pursuit of an ideology-driven austerity agenda.

“Time and time again, amidst pandemics and crises, we’ve seen the Tories turn their backs on the most vulnerable people by refusing to reverse this policy - making it clear that only with independence can Scots be free of the worst of Tory rule.”

Natalie Don MSP highlights Cervical Screening Awareness Week

“Cervical screening saves lives, preventing up to 7 in 10 incidences of cervical cancer. Despite this, almost 1 in 3 do not attend their cervical screening (smear test) when invited,” said Natalie Don MSP, commenting on Cervical Screening Awareness Week which runs from 20th to 26th June 2022 and aims to highlight the importance of regular cervical screening for women’s health.

Cervical cancer is the most common form of cancer in women under 35 with two women in the UK per day dying from the disease. Regular cervical screening appointments can prevent up to 75% of instances of cervical cancer, saving 5000 lives per year. Cervical Screening Awareness Week is organised by the charity Jo’s trust, a charity dedicated to women affected by cervical cancer or abnormalities.

Cervical Screening Awareness week aims to encourage all women to have regular cervical screening as well as to provide information and reassurance around any fears or embarrassment that women may have concerning taking the test.

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP said:

“Cervical Screening Awareness Week aims to highlight the importance of regular screening and to help tackle the concerns of women who don’t attend their appointments.

“When found early, cervical cancer is highly treatable and associated with high survival rates so raising awareness of symptoms, encouraging cervical screening attendance and noticing any changes which are unusual for you and your body is vital.

“It is important to make sure you don’t miss your cervical screening appointment, if you have concerns over this you should talk to your GP about this as soon as possible.”

https://www.jostrust.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/cervical-screening-awareness-week  

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Scottish Breastfeeding Week

Breastfeeding Friendly Week runs from the 13th to the 19th of June and aims to celebrate the work being done to support, promote and protect breastfeeding in Scotland. 

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed this year’s Scottish Breastfeeding Week stating that it is the perfect time to encourage more conversations around breastfeeding. This Week also aims to highlight the benefits of breastfeeding to baby and maternal health, to promote the power of choice and a child’s right to breastfeed and to call on employers to support breastfeeding staff all with the priority of normalising breastfeeding. It also serves as an opportunity to highlight the Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme which is a free initiative, backed by the Scottish Government and provides information to businesses, employers, services and organisations on how to make premises friendly and welcoming for nursing mums. 

Natalie Don MSP is encouraging employers, businesses and other organisations to sign up to the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme and show support to breastfeeding mothers.

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP stated; 

“It is extremely important that we encourage and open up the conversation around breastfeeding. As a breastfeeding mother myself, I do understand many of the fears and anxieties that are facing nursing mums. Many mums get anxious about breastfeeding in public so we need to make sure we are doing everything we can to support and encourage them to feel comfortable - wherever and however we choose to feed our babies.

We already have some fantastic support groups and organisations which aim to support mothers in their breastfeeding journeys. The Breastfeeding Friendly Network and Breastfeeding Friendly Inverclyde provide hands on support and vital information to breastfeeding mums. However, we are still far from a place where breastfeeding is deemed as normal in society and we need to change that.

The Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme is an excellent place to start, by making nursing mums feel welcome. There are already many wonderful businesses, organisations and groups who have signed up to the scheme but there are many more that could get on board too. For more information or to sign up visit; 

https://www.mygov.scot/breastfeeding-and-your-business?fbclid=IwAR3IjC1AcrZKu-PvLfeS5WcblhulqAjsFG3kmkuVpIhCTYW9KBCsfmaQhng

Tory Austerity Driving Down Health in Renfrewshire North and West

“This report highlights the negative impact that Tory austerity policies are having on ordinary people,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP- Renfrewshire North and West).

People across Renfrewshire North and West are suffering as a result of Tory cuts which have been slammed as ‘catastrophic’ in a new report by top researchers.

The Glasgow Centre for Population Health (GCPH) found that people in Scotland feel their health is deteriorating from a younger age than previously. The study found that people in Scotland started to feel their health decline from age 46, a decline from 51 in 2009.

Dr David Walsh from GCPH described the finding as ‘terrifying’ and laid the blame squarely at the door of the Tory UK government and its cuts to social security payments. Dr Walsh also commented that ‘this should not be happening in a wealthy country like the UK’.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“This report lays bare the appalling record of this callous Tory UK government as they continually slash support from those in Renfrewshire North and West that need it most.

“People in Renfrewshire North and West should not be feeling their health decline earlier than they did a decade ago - we are a wealthy country that can look after our citizens but sadly Westminster control is resulting in this devastating reality.

“While I’m very glad the SNP Scottish Government has introduced a number of social security payments to support households across Scotland, including the ‘game-changing’ Scottish Child Payment, we are continuing to act with one-hand tied behind our back by a UK Tory government that removes support at time when people need it most.

“These conclusions also come out just a week after another Glasgow University study that has found that UK Tory austerity is causing people to die younger - report after report highlighting the brutal consequences of Westminster control

“We can, and must, do better. It is beyond doubt now that we need the full powers of independence so we can build a fairer, more equal society for everyone in Renfrewshire North and West and right across Scotland.”

Trends in healthy life expectancy in the age of austerity | Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health - BMJ

Westminster blamed for 'good health' slump in Scotland – Herald, 7 June 2022

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Scottish Government’s Heating Assistance Payment

“Once again the SNP Scottish Government is stepping up to support households within its limited budget, despite the majority of powers lying with the Tories at Westminster”, said Natalie Don MSP commenting on the Scottish Government’s plans to introduce a new Low Income Winter Heating Assistance benefit.

This support is being introduced by the SNP Scottish Government and will guarantee an annual payment of £50 to around 400,000 low income households from February 2023.  It replaces the UK Government’s Cold Weather payments which were only triggered during a ‘cold spell’ of seven consecutive days below zero degrees.  The new payment from the Scottish Government will provide a reliable, stable guaranteed payment in winter, no matter the weather.

It will be the thirteenth social security payment introduced by the SNP Scottish Government and will be only available in Scotland.

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP added:

“The SNP Scottish Government is providing a guaranteed payment of £50 to low-income households in Renfrewshire North and West to help pay their energy bills every winter, starting in February 2023.

“The Scottish Government’s annual £20m investment will mean households will get an automatic payment. The UK Cold Weather payments only reached 11,000 households in 2021/22.

“As the Scottish Government continues to step up and provide support to households across Scotland, it does so with one hand tied behind its back by the UK Tory government.

“That is why it is only with the full powers of independence can we start to build a fairer, more equal country.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Carers Week

“Carers Week is a great time to highlight the support that carers provide to loved ones”, said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North and West), commenting on Carers Week 2022, which runs from the 6th to the 12th June 2022.

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout Renfrewshire, Scotland and the UK. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

Carers need to be recognised for the difficulties they are experiencing, respected for all they are doing, provided with information, and given the support they need to care safely. So, during Carers Week, the focus is on coming together to make caring Visible, Valued and Supported.

Natale Don MSP added:

“With experience of being a young carer myself, I can understand that sometimes carers aren’t aware of the support that is available to them and events like Carers Week will help to address this.

Natalie Don MSP

“Being a carer can impact on all aspects of life, from relationships to holding down a job.  Carers Week will help to promote the role of carers and how others, such as employers, can get to understand what carers do and hopefully provide the support to them.

“Whilst many feel that caring is one of the most important things they do, its challenges should not be underestimated. Caring without the right information and support can be tough. It is vitally important that we recognise the contribution carers make to their families and local communities, workplaces and society, and that they get the support they need.”

Natalie Don MSP thanks Quarriers volunteers for their dedication

“Volunteers’ Week is a great opportunity to thank all those who put in their time and effort to support the many local community and voluntary groups across Renfrewshire North and West,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North & West), commenting on Volunteers’ Week which ran from 1st – 7th June.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, Natalie Don MSP visited health and social care charity Quarriers in Bridge of Weir to meet with some of their volunteers and hear of their personal experiences of volunteering.  The volunteers provide a range of support including befriending and activity roles as well as administration support. Quarriers has an established volunteer programme, providing support to their volunteers.

As well as helping others, volunteering has been shown to improve volunteers' wellbeing too. Volunteering can also help you gain valuable new skills and experiences and boost your confidence.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“So many local groups and communities rely on our great volunteers within the constituency and Renfrewshire as a whole.  Volunteers’ week is a time to recognise their efforts and to thank them for the contributions they make to our communities.

Natalie Don MSP meeting volunteers at Quarriers

“I was delighted to meet some amazing volunteers at Quarriers last week who go above and beyond to make a difference. The volunteers were from a whole range of different services that the charity provides, and it was inspiring to chat with them and to hear about the work they do. 

“During the various Covid lockdowns many people relied on volunteers, whether that was delivering food or medicines or simply keeping in touch to make sure everyone was ok.  This period really highlighted the essential support that volunteers provide to our communities.”

Louise McGinty, Volunteer Development Manager said:

“Volunteers play a vital role at Quarriers and make a world of difference to the lives of the people we support and our work.  Each one brings their own skills, time and experience and we can’t thank them enough.”

Renfrewshire households paying almost £1,600 per year on Energy Bills

According to data from comparethemarket.com, households in Renfrewshire are already paying 19.9% more than the price cap that is set to be introduced in October this year.

The data also shows that people across Scotland are paying more on their bills than compared to England and Wales.

Commenting, SNP MSP Natalie Don said:

"People across Scotland, including in Renfrewshire are paying the price for sky high energy bills, despite Scotland having an abundance of resources in oil and gas and renewables.

"Under Westminster control, the vast revenue from Scotland's oil and gas industry has been squandered by UK governments for decades and now it is consumers in Renfrewshire who are getting hammered with higher average energy bills.

"This is also a result of the outrageous and expensive transmission charges that are charged in Scotland for companies to access the national grid here.

"The measures announced by the Chancellor last month – welcome though they were - will barely scratch the surface of the rocketing energy bills crippling households now and in the winter months to come.

"High fuel bills in Renfrewshire and across Scotland lies squarely at the door of the Westminster government and shows why Scotland needs the full range of powers that will come with independence."

SNP announce record social security spending for Renfrewshire North & West

As communities across Renfrewshire North and West recover from the pandemic and face a Tory made cost of living crisis, the SNP Government’s spending review outlined record social security spending to help households facing increasing pressures. The Scottish Government allocated around £23 billion for social security over the course of the parliamentary term.

The focus on supporting households under increasing pressure reflects the SNP’s commitment to create a fairer Scotland by tackling child poverty, reducing inequalities and supporting financial wellbeing in Renfrewshire North and West, and builds on current efforts to help families and mitigate Westminster welfare cuts.

The Resource Spending Review outlined over £23 billion worth of payments, with a total of almost £1.8 billion for the ‘game changing’ Scottish Child Payment alone. By 2026-27 the budget for Social Security Assistance will have increased by £6.3 billion.

This is despite the Scottish Budget for this year being cut in real terms by 5.2 per cent by the Tory UK government and the SNP government already spending almost £770 million on cost of living support, including several measures for families in Renfrewshire North and West not available elsewhere in the UK, such as:

• Doubling the ‘game changing’ Scottish Child Payment to £20 per child per week with plans to increase it to £25 and extend it to under 16s by the end of the year – reaching a possible 450,00 young people.

• Investing £86m to mitigate the Tory Government bedroom tax and benefit cap and support 90,00 people in their tenancies

• Uprating eight Scottish social security payments by 6 per cent

• A brand new Low-Income Winter Heating benefit that guarantees a £50 annual payment to over 400,000 low income households in winter 22/23

• The Carers Allowance Supplement which will support around 90,000 carers with an additional £450 a year

• Providing everyone in primaries one to five and over 140,000 eligible children and young people access to a free school lunch

• Making free bus travel available for nearly half of Scotland’s population through concessionary travel

Additionally, the Scottish Government is making investment in areas like energy efficiency to bring down costs and the spending review set out how SNP will build on these over the coming years.

Natalie Don MSP

Commenting SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West Natalie Don said:

“I am very glad to see this record investment in social security by the SNP Government, putting such a strong focus on tackling child poverty and helping households in Renfrewshire North and West who are facing severe pressures right now which seems likely to only increase for the next while.

“Many families across Renfrewshire North and West are already benefitting from support like the Scottish Child payment, a £150 council tax reduction, the Scottish Welfare Fund and Discretionary Housing Payments which mitigate Westminster’s cruel bedroom tax.

“These are policies that built on the SNP’s current efforts. They will make a real difference to people’s lives and build on long standing measures that we benefit from every day – such as free prescriptions, free university tuition, free personal care, and 1,140 hours of free early learning and childcare which will continue to be maintained.

“When times are tough, Governments have to make tough decisions and I’m grateful the SNP continue to focus on what matters most to people but it is acting with one hand tied behind its back as Westminster continues to inflict its cruel austerity agenda at a time when people need support the most.

“Once again, it is clear that only with the full powers of independence that we can stop spending a fixed budget on protecting households against Tory cuts and start to properly build a fairer, more equal Scotland.”

Natalie Don MSP highlights importance of Dementia Awareness Week

“The aim of this week is to raise awareness of dementia, helping improve the lives of people with dementia, their families and carers,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North & West), commenting on Dementia Awareness Week, organised by Alzheimer Scotland and which runs from 30th May until 5th June.

This year's theme is 'Let's Prevent, Care, Cure dementia together' and over the week Alzheimer Scotland will run a series of events, including their Tea & Blether campaign which will run throughout both Dementia Awareness Week and June. The ‘Tea & Blether’ campaign encourages supporters to organise tea and coffee mornings to help raise awareness of dementia and the support available from Alzheimer Scotland. You can sign up for free and download a fundraising pack full of ideas and toolkits to help host a Tea and Blether worth talking about. As part of Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer Scotland is encouraging supporters to host their own coffee morning either during this awareness week or any time in June.

Natalie Don MSP

Natalie Don MSP added:

“I am delighted to support Dementia Awareness Week organised by Alzheimer Scotland, this is a diagnosis that too many families have to live with and it is important that information about the help and support that is available is more widely known.

“Dementia is not part of the natural ageing process, it affects the brain, making it harder to remember things or think as clearly as before. It's an umbrella term for over 100 different types of illnesses and disease symptoms.

“Alzheimer Scotland provides information, support and dementia-friendly activities to help make sure nobody faces dementia alone.

“The Tea & Blether campaign is a great way to raise awareness and discuss common concerns. Social engagement has a positive impact on our wellbeing and brain. Tea & Blether is a chance to enjoy each other’s company while supporting our own health and people living with dementia.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved in Dementia Awareness Week.”

Alzheimer Scotland will have an information desk, Dementia Advisors and Link Workers to answer any questions you may have about dementia. Join us at: Braehead Shopping Centre on Friday 3 June between 10am and 4pm includes a Tea & Blether in the Atrium

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Scottish Bus Week

“Scottish Bus Week is a chance for us to look at the potential that buses can provide to help us tackle climate change,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North and West), commenting on the first ever Scottish Bus Week which runs from 23rd May until 29th May.

Scottish Bus Week, is an initiative from #lovemybus (from Transform Scotland) supported by Paths for All and partners – including First Bus, Lothian, Stagecoach, Borders Buses and West Coast Motors. Scottish Bus Week will be delivered in partnership with CPT Scotland.

While buses can reduce emissions, air pollution and inequalities across our communities, they also make a significant contribution to our economy. Scotland manufactures low and zero emission buses. Investment in building buses and providing bus services creates jobs. Buses reduce congestion which can cost Scotland £2 billion a year. In most communities buses are the main public transport for education, work and leisure.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“It’s important to tackle the climate challenges facing all of us, and one key sector is that of transport.  A switch to using low and zero emission buses instead of cars can help to protect our environment by reducing congestion and improving air quality.

“Buses – both in their use and in the manufacture of low and zero emission buses can strengthen our economy and help deliver a just transition to a clean, green economy.

“A modal shift from private cars to public transport like buses – especially where low and no emission vehicles are used – can make a vast improvement in our attempts to tackle climate change.

“The Scottish Government has already outlined plans on council’s gaining new powers over bus routes, whether running services themselves or in partnership with bus companies – this could help to revitalise bus services in communities all across Scotland who feel they are missing out on an adequate bus service.”