£641 MILLION IN SOCIAL SECURITY SCOTLAND SUPPORT PAID LAST YEAR

Social Security Scotland has published its Annual Report and Accounts, which show that it made £641 million in direct payments to people across Scotland from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023.  

The payments were made across 13 Scottish benefits, seven of which are completely new forms of support not available anywhere else in the UK.  

This includes the Scottish Child Payment which has been extended to eligible children under the age of 16. More than 300,000 young people are now receiving this payment.

The payments also include the new Winter Heating Payment, which has helped almost 400,000 people on low incomes with their heating costs.  

The results of an annual survey of clients have also been published, showing that 93% of people who had been in contact with Social Security Scotland felt they had been treated with kindness. 

Among those who responded to the survey, 97% said they had received their benefit payments when Social Security Scotland said they would and 90% said their experience with staff was ‘very good’ or ‘good’. A further 90% said staff listened to them and 89% felt they were treated with respect. 

In total, the combination of direct payments made by Social Security Scotland and those paid through Agency Agreements with the Department for Work and Pensions saw the Scottish Government invest £4.04 billion in benefits across Scotland.

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

“I am glad that the Scottish Government is supporting families in Renfrewshire at a time where they are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and higher energy bills. Social Security Scotland now delivers 13 benefits, seven of which are only available in Scotland and are delivering these payments while treating people with dignity, fairness, and respect.  

“The Scottish Government’s decision to expand the Scottish Child Payment to all eligible young people under the age of 16 and increase the payment to £25 per week means the government is supporting over 10,300 children in here Renfrewshire, with £11,450,080 having been paid out by June 2023. Across the whole of Scotland, over 316,000 are benefitting from the payment.

“As the Scottish Government prepares to launch Carer Support Payment, their 14th benefit, they are committed to making sure that people get the money they are entitled to and that people who are eligible know how to apply for payments.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Book Week Scotland

“Book Week Scotland is a great annual event celebrating books and reading,” said Natalie Don MSP commenting on the start of Book Week Scotland which runs from the 13th – 19th November.

Book Week Scotland, now celebrating its twelfth year, aims to promote the importance of books and reading.  As well as a number of events all across Scotland including authors readings and events for younger readers, the Scottish Book Trust produces a free book made up of true stories from people all over Scotland. This year around 70,000 copies of this year’s book will be distributed around the country. 

Natalie Don MSP added:

“During Book Week, people of all ages and walks of life come together to share the joy of reading.  This is a great opportunity to celebrate reading and all the benefits that come with it for both children and adults.

“Each year the Scottish Book Trust produces a free book, written by people from all over the country.  The theme of this year’s book is adventure, with the Scottish Book Trust narrowing down all the stories sent to them into one small book.

“I have a limited supply of this free book available for constituents or book groups within my constituency of Renfrewshire North and West.  If anyone would like a copy of this book, please contact my office.

More information on Book Week Scotland can be found at: https://www.scottishbooktrust.com/book-week-scotland

SNP MSP NATALIE DON WELCOMES NEW ROUND OF SUPPORT FOR SCOTTISH ENTREPRENEURS IN RENFREWSHIRE

Local MSP for Renfrewshire North and West has welcomed £54,800 of SNP Scottish Government funding for local projects that foster entrepreneurship. 

Scotpreneur - Entrepreneurial Voices in Renfrewshire is set to receive £42,850, and the University of West of Scotland’s Academic Entrepreneurs will also benefit from £11,950 of funding.

This latest round of funding will help people from under-represented backgrounds start their own businesses and nurture new companies. There will also be funding to help women and other priority groups become entrepreneurs and access support. 

The Ecosystem Fund will provide a total of £1.6 million to 42 recipients, while the Pre-Start Pathways Fund will support 20 projects with £1.3 million.  

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

“I am delighted that this latest round of SNP Scottish Government support for entrepreneurial talent is investing a total of £54,800 towards local projects in Renfrewshire.

“These funds will unlock enormous potential in budding sectors of our economy, helping Scots to utilise their talents and easing financial pressures for those hit hardest by the ongoing cost of living crisis. 

“It is the SNP’s mission to foster an entrepreneurial climate built on the three pillars of equality, opportunity and community, and this fund is an important step towards making that a reality in communities like Renfrewshire.” 

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT’S NEW BSL ACTION PLAN

Actions to help improve the lives of British Sign Language (BSL) users have been published as part of ongoing work to make Scotland the best place to live, work and visit for people that use the language.

The BSL National Plan 2023-29 has made 45 commitments aimed at tackling barriers faced by BSL users by embedding the language across health, education, transport, culture and employment.

Commitments made include:

-          building the right partnerships and connections to ensure deaf and deafblind children and their families can access BSL support at an early stage

-          improving accessibility to arts and culture events, in addition to promoting BSL culture

-          working with Transport Scotland and transport operators on solutions to make public transport easier to use for BSL users

-          improving accessibility of the Scottish Government website for BSL user

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

“I welcome this plan from the Scottish Government which recognises how important BSL is to the lives of many people and aims to make Scotland the best place in the world for BSL users to visit and live in.

“These 45 commitments will improve access to vital services and provide more opportunities for BSL users to contribute further to Scotland’s economy, culture and communities.

“The BSL community should be at heart of our decision-making process in this area, which is why the Scottish Government will also establish a BSL National Plan Implementation Advisory Group, to ensure that the views of the community are properly represented.”

MIGRATION IN AN INDEPENDENT SCOTLAND

Scotland would benefit from the creation of a migration system that could boost the economy and better meet the country’s needs, according to a new paper on independence published by Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville.

‘Migration to Scotland after independence’, the sixth paper in the Building a New Scotland series, sets out the Scottish Government’s proposals for how migration and asylum could work in an independent Scotland.

The proposals include new visa routes to make it easier for people to live, work, study and invest in Scotland, to support population growth in rural and island areas and key economic sectors such as tourism and hospitality.

Asylum and migration policy would also be overhauled from the current UK system, with people seeking asylum given the right to work and access employability services, to help integration and address key labour market shortages.

The paper also includes details on a simplified immigration system with lower fees and new public agencies to manage how migration and citizenship systems would operate, in line with the Scottish Government’s commitment to re-join the EU as an independent nation.

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

“I welcome this paper from the Scottish Government, which sets out how independence can offer the opportunity to ensure that asylum and migration policy is set according to Scotland’s needs, so that Scotland can thrive.

“Unlike other UK nations, Scotland’s population is set to fall, which means fewer people working, paying taxes and contributing to public services like the NHS. However, Scotland remains subject to the inhumane and hostile approach of the UK government, which is damaging to our economy and does not work for the distinct needs of our population.

“With independence, we would have control over migration policy which would help Scotland grow its overall and its working population. We would also have the chance to again welcome fellow EU citizens through re-joining the European Union, bringing back the benefits free movement in Europe.

“Ultimately, we would be able to create a fairer system enshrined in dignity and respect, welcoming everyone and anyone who wants to make Scotland their home.”

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT DELIVERING A START-UP NATION

New funds will help more people from under-represented backgrounds start their own businesses and nurture fledgling companies.

A total of 42 recipients will share £1.6 million through the Ecosystem Fund, while 20 projects will receive £1.3 million through a new Pre-Start Pathways Fund.

Funding to help women and other priority groups become entrepreneurs and access support and advice forms part of the Scottish Government initiative.

Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray announced the recipients at the Scottish Black Talent Summit in Edinburgh.

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

“The Scottish Government understands the various barriers that underrepresented groups face in entrepreneurial participation, which is why it is investing in the Ecosystem Fund and Pre-Start Pathways Fund.

“Both of these initiatives will play a key part in supporting our most underrepresented groups to see their potential and talent, through widening pathways for them to start new thriving businesses.”

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT TRANSFORMING JUSTICE SYSTEM

Woman and girls will be better protected and victims’ needs prioritised as part of reforms to improve justice services and create safer communities.  

The Vision for Justice Delivery Plan published today also includes actions to address long-standing challenges in the system faced by victims of sexual offences, and the continued modernisation of the prison estate.

Setting out an ambitious programme of reforms that are being taken forward to March 2026, the plan puts a fresh focus on early intervention to prevent and reduce crime to make communities safer.

The reforms build on the significant progress already achieved since February 2022, when the Scottish Government published the Vision for Justice - outlining a strategy to modernise, strengthen and improve the justice sector to ensure it meets the needs of all who use it.

Reforms planned up to March 2026 include:

-          the introduction of a Misogyny Bill to create new offences related to misogynistic conduct

-          continued modernisation of the prison estate, including opening HMP Highland and starting building work on HMP Glasgow to replace Barlinnie

-          the national roll-out of a system to digitally transform how evidence is managed across the justice sector, benefiting victims and witnesses by supporting quicker resolution of cases 

-          expanding the availability of mediation services in civil disputes to save people time, stress and money

MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, said:

“The Scottish Government’s Delivery Plan maps out further actions to reform, modernise and strengthen the justice system so it better meets the needs of victims, reduces reoffending, and ensures rates of offending continue to be at historic lows.

“There is a specific focus on action to better protect women and girls, improve services for children and prevent and reduce crime through early intervention.

“This includes the introduction of the Victims, Witnesses and Criminal Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill – which, if passed, will put victims and witnesses right at the heart of the justice system, and the creation of Bairns’ Hoose test sites to ensure a range of trauma-informed support is available to child victims and witnesses of abuse and harm.

“These plans are all based on a determination to build a trauma-informed and person-centred justice system in which individuals and communities can trust.”

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES EXPANSION OF LIFESAVING OVERDOSE-REVERSAL SCHEME

Access to potentially life-saving naloxone kits, which reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, is being expanded to community pharmacies across Scotland.

All community pharmacies will now hold at least two naloxone kits - either a nasal spray or injectable.  

The Emergency Access Naloxone Scheme, which is backed by £300,000 of Scottish Government funding, began on 30 October 2023.

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

“Through the Scottish Government’s National Mission to reduce drug deaths and harms, they have invested more than £3 million in widening access to Naloxone, including through our emergency services.

“Police Scotland recently completed a force-wide rollout to 12,500 officers who have used the kits more than 300 times and, according to the most recent statistics, 70% of those who are at risk of opioid overdose are being provided with a lifesaving kit.

“However, the Government wants to do even more. This new nationwide service is a welcome addition to existing services here in Renfrewshire. It provides a substantial increase life-saving emergency access and I’m grateful to all those in community pharmacies who are supporting our £250 million National Mission to reduce drug deaths.

“The Scottish Government will also continue to focus on getting more people into the form of treatment and support they need, expand access to residential rehabilitation and drive the rollout of life-saving Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Standards where we are making significant progress.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes Scottish Government paper on Migration

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s latest paper, ‘Migration to Scotland after Independence’ as the sixth paper in the Building a New Scotland series.

The paper, published on Friday 3rd November, outlines how Scotland, with the full powers of independence, would address problems such as worker shortages and depopulation with an approach to migration that stands in stark contrast with that of the UK government.

Under these plans, Scotland would implement a humane, dignified and principled migration system which would maximise the many benefits of migration to both our society and our economy. There is also emphasis on protecting the rights of migrants and free movement as a member of the EU.

Commenting, Natalie Don MSP said:

“This paper demonstrates that whether you are coming to an independent Scotland seeking refuge or to make a new life for yourself, you will be welcomed and supported in doing so.

“For too long the immense value that migrants add to communities like Renfrewshire North & West, whether that is through cultural or economic enrichment, has been ignored.

“Westminster control over migration policy has done immeasurable harm to both migrants and Scotland and the current hostile environment is a shameful scourge on the UK.

“With the full powers of independence, Scotland will create a migration policy that is tailored to the needs of our people, our businesses and our economy.

“We must be able to implement policies which reflect the values and needs of communities like Renfrewshire North & West, and this paper outlines how, with the full powers of independence, we would do exactly that.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes new bill to improve social security in Scotland

“This new bill will make the system more efficient and effective,” said Natalie Don MSP commenting on new legislation aimed at improving the way the Scottish system of social security delivers for people in need of support.

The Social Security (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill enhances the rights of Social Security Scotland clients in a number of ways:

•         A right to late re-determinations and appeals in exceptional circumstances

•         The right to withdraw a request for redetermination

•         The right to challenge a decision that someone is liable in a situation where an overpayment has been made

The Bill will also continue to enhance the design of the system, maximising choice for those who use it while delivering good value for money.  It will also enable the Scottish Government to recover the cost of devolved social security benefits from compensation awards in situations where someone has had to claim payments as a result of a third party’s fault.

New legislation to improve social security in Scotland

This new bill will make the system more efficient and effective.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“Scotland has built a social security system centred on dignity, fairness and respect, a far cry from the UK Government’s DWP system, however we know there are always more ways to improve. The changes proposed are part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to continuously enhance the Scottish social security system in ways which put the needs of those who require assistance first.

“They will help make the social security system more efficient and effective, contributing to our mission to tackle poverty and protect people from harm.

Natalie Don MSP warns of cost of living driving increased demand for rent arrears advice.

“This latest report from Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) highlights the ongoing impact of the Tory created cost of living crisis”, said Natalie Don MSP. 

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) is warning that the Tory created cost of living crisis is seeing more and more people fall behind on their rent, as new figures show a 37% increase in demand for advice around rent arrears in the year to September 2023. 

The charity has previously warned about rising demand for advice around illegal evictions and rent increases, despite legislation being in place to protect tenants. The CAS network has been helping people facing issues with rent arrears, or other challenges as a result of prioritising their rent across essential spending. 

CAS social justice spokesperson, Aoife Deery, said:  

“Over the past year we have seen a huge increase in people seeking advice on rent arrears, suggesting more and more people are falling behind on the rent. 

Rising Demand for Rent Arrears Advice

According to Citizens Advice Scotland there has been a huge increase in demand for advice around rent arrears.

Natalie Don MSP added: 

“Over the course of this Tory created cost-of-living crisis people are having to make impossible choices on spending, literally between putting the heating on, the weekly food shop or paying the rent. 

“As we head into the winter, the CAS network is concerned that more and more people facing higher energy costs will continue to face difficult choices on their essential spending. 

“Since the pandemic we have seen a range of legal protections introduced by the Scottish Parliament to offer protections to tenants, and the Scottish Government plan to introduce a Housing Bill in this parliament. That will be a huge opportunity to make sure the system works for people.” 

“The Scottish Government is doing what it can to offset the worst of the Tory created cost of living crisis but is limited by the powers of devolution.  Only with the real powers of an independent nation can Scotland fully tackle this cost of living crisis. 

“Anyone looking for support on their housing bills, or any other bills, should contact either Renfrewshire CAB on 0141 889 22121 or Advice Works on 0300 300 1238”. 

Natalie Don MSP welcomes new payment for care leavers

Natalie Don MSP has welcomed the announcement that a one-off £2,000 payment from the SNP Scottish Government will be made available to young people who are leaving the care system in Renfrewshire North & West.

First Minister Humza Yousaf announced the payment following the Independent Care Review’s findings that those with care experience have an increased risk of poor mental health, addiction, homelessness, and exploitation.

The payment is co-designed with care experienced people to ensure that it meets their needs and helps to reduce some of the financial impediments in their way as they seek to live independently.

Commenting, Natalie Don MSP said:

“The SNP Scottish Government is committed to Keeping the Promise by 2030 to all children and young people leaving care, and part of that is ensuring that they are supported on their journey into adulthood.

“Living independently can be a huge adjustment and comes at a pivotal time for young people leaving care in Renfrewshire North & West, especially if they don’t have family support.

“The SNP Scottish Government is therefore providing support to care experienced young people across Scotland through the Care Leaver Payment, and this will make a real difference to the lives of young people in Renfrewshire North & West.”

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AFFECTED BY DRUGS IN RENFREWSHIRE

A service which provides support for young people affected by substance use in their family is being expanded to six new areas of Scotland.

The Routes youth programme, which is run by Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD), offers one-to-one and group support to people aged 12 to 26 and currently operates in East and West Dunbartonshire.

Now SFAD has formed a partnership with six other charities, including Action for Children who will roll out the programme to Renfrewshire.

The expansion comes after the Scottish Government announced SFAD would receive £4 million earlier this year from the Whole Family Wellbeing Fund as part of the cross-government approach to tackling the drug deaths crisis.

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

“Young people living with a loved one who is using substances need to feel like they are not alone. It is important that that they have an opportunity to share their experiences, learn more about substance use, and explore how they can achieve their own goals.

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s understanding that they must not only help people who are facing problems with drugs, but also their family members. I am pleased that this funding will allow more young people in Renfrewshire to access this vital support.”

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

Young people are being urged to find out if they are eligible for Job Start Payment as part of a new campaign.

The Scottish Government has introduced changes to Job Start Payment, simplifying the process for young people to apply.

Changes to the qualifying criteria mean that income received from completing trial shifts will now not rule out applicants from getting Job Start Payment.

Further changes made by Social Security Scotland, who administer the payment, include extending the deadline to apply to six months after the young person’s job offer rather than the previous three months, and supplying simplified supporting information for proof of job. These changes are designed to make the application process clearer and simpler.

The one-off payment helps young people and care leavers with the costs of starting a new job. Eligible people receive a one-off payment of £294.70 or £471.50 if they are a main carer of any children.

The nationwide digital marketing campaign, which launched on 23 October, aims to raise awareness of the financial support available to young people and care leavers when offered a job after a period of unemployment.

MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, said:

“Since launching in August 2020, Job Start Payment has made a real difference to young people in Renfrewshire, and across Scotland, by supporting them to take up employment opportunities.

“The pressures of starting a new job can be overwhelming and we don’t want the extra costs to be what stops young people.

“It is now simpler for eligible clients to apply for Job Start Payment due to the recent guidance changes. I encourage young people and carers in Renfrewshire North and West who have recently started work, or employers taking on young people in a new job, to find out more and check if they are eligible.

"The tory-made cost of living crisis is having a huge impact on everyone, with people facing difficult financial decisions day in and day out.

“The SNP Scottish Government are committed to making sure that people are getting all of the money that they are entitled to and that the people who are eligible know how to apply.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes extra funding for Neurological Support Services

Natalie Don MSP has described the latest round of Scottish Government funding for support services for people living with neurological conditions as “life-changing.”

This is the fourth round of awards made as part of a five-year action plan and will provide £440,000 to progress eight projects run by organisations like the Care Inspectorate and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, Cerebral Palsy Scotland and the Migraine Trust.

This latest round of SNP Scottish Government funding will be life-changing for those living with neurological conditions in Renfrewshire North & West.

Commenting, Natalie Don MSP said

“The innovative projects that receive this financial support are providing invaluable support to those living with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and multiple sclerosis; helping them to live a fulfilling life, on their own terms.

“This funding allows these organisations to expand their services, and by investing a total of £4.5 million invested over five years the SNPovernment is making a real difference to the lives of those who need this support.

“The SNP Scottish Government is determined to ensure that high-quality and co-ordinated support is available to those with neurological conditions in Renfrewshire North & West and are making meaningful progress in making this a reality across Scotland.”

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES EXTRA £50 MILLION OF SUPPORT FOR NHS OVER WINTER

A £50 million funding boost for Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) recruitment and up to £12 million to expand Hospital at Home are among measures to support the health and care system this winter.

The Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint Winter Plan, published this week, identifies new funding for SAS to support work already underway to recruit a further 317 frontline staff to help increase capacity to emergency response. It will also see 18 additional clinicians working in the call centre hub who, through additional triage, can offer patients alternative treatment routes in cases which are not time-critical, reducing the number of hospital admissions.

The expansion of Hospital at Home, which enables people to be treated at home rather than on a ward, is intended to deliver at least 380 additional beds this winter – significantly increasing the total service capacity.

The Scottish Government has been working closely with COSLA, Health and Social Care Partnerships, and NHS Boards on a number of further measures to ensure they are prepared for the winter period. This includes a Delayed Discharge Action Plan and improvements to the reporting of data to better identify specific areas for further support or escalation.

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

“The workforce within Renfrewshire’s health and social care sector, and across Scotland, are outstanding, and so I very much welcome this investment from the Scottish Government, which is vital in ensuring we deliver high quality care for the public as we approach the winter period.

“The Scottish Government are in no doubt that this winter will be extremely challenging. This Winter plan builds on the lessons they have learned from previous years and preparations have been on-going since spring. The whole system approach is based on ensuring people can access the care that is right for them – at the right time and in the right place.

“The additional investment of up to £12 million to expand the Hospital at Home service will allow people, especially elderly patients, patients with respiratory conditions and children, to receive treatments in the comfort of their own home and will crucially help reduce pressure on our A&E departments this winter.

“Furthermore, as a result of the Scottish Government’s significant investment of over £15 million, an additional 1,000 nurses, midwives and Allied Health Professional from overseas have joined NHS Scotland in the last two years to bolster our existing workforce this winter. The £50 million funding boost for the Scottish Ambulance Service will also help tackle increased demand and support on-going recruitment to drive up capacity for emergency response and reduce the need for people to go to hospital.”

SNP MSP URGES LOCAL PRODUCERS TO APPLY FOR FUNDING

Natalie Don, MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, is encouraging local food and drink producers in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde to apply for funding from the SNP Government’s Regional Food Fund. 

The Regional Food Fund has made £100,000 available for businesses and groups who are undertaking projects to promote regional products and open new markets. 

The fund has so far supporter a variety of projects across Scotland and is an excellent opportunity for local businesses, producers, and community groups across the constituency to showcase the best food and drink products in our region. 

Commenting, SNP MSP Natalie Don said: 

“This fund is an excellent opportunity for producers, businesses, and community groups across Renfrewshire North and West to get the support they need to promote their fantastic local products. 

“Scotland’s food and drink sector is a multi-billion-pound industry – and this fund ensures that local producers get the opportunity to fully take advantage of national supply chains and promote their products across the country. 

“I strongly encourage any local producers in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde to apply for this fund before the November 24thdeadline – the desire for local produce is strong and this support helps make it a reality.”

NATALIE DON MSP WELCOMES NEXT STEPS FOR BAIRNS HOOSE

Minister for Keeping the Promise, Natalie Don, has announced the six successful locations that will become home to Scotland’s first Bairns’ Hoose test sites.

Supported by £6 million Scottish Government funding, multi-agency partnerships in Fife, North Strathclyde, Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen City, Tayside and the Outer Hebrides will set up pathfinders to provide coordinated comprehensive support for children and young people in the justice system.

Services including child protection, recovery, healthcare, therapeutic support and justice will be available which will provide a blueprint for a full pilot in 2025.

Member of the Scottish Parliament for Renfrewshire North and West, and Minister for Keeping the Promise, Natalie Don, said:

“Establishing this network is a major step forward in our aim to transform the care and justice systems for children and young people, many of whom will have been through serious trauma. The creation of these pathfinders will also help us to collectively uphold the rights of children and their families to compassionate and effective support in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

“This is a key action in Keeping the Promise and I’m pleased to have marked Care Experienced Week by meeting representatives of this vital project to hear about their vision for the future as one of the first Bairns’ Hoose Pathfinder Partnerships.”

Barnahus founder and Member of the United Nation’s Committee on the Rights of the Child, Bragi Guðbrandsson, said:

“I am delighted that Barnahus is being implemented in Scotland through the Bairns’ Hoose Pathfinder programme led by Scottish Government and working with partners across a range of sectors.

“This important milestone shows that Barnahus can be adapted to different contexts, cultural traditions, and legislative structures, but its core concept remains the same - to support children who have experienced trauma, in the best possible way, through multiagency responses.

“A significant financial contribution from the Scottish Government will help to build on the positive collaborative working between social work, police, health, third sector and other partners to ensure successful implementation and capturing learning to support a wider national rollout. I look forward to following the progress of Scotland’s Bairns’ Hoose Pathfinders closely.”

Natalie Don MSP welcomes funding for The Promise

42 organisations across Scotland will benefit from £4 million funding to deliver projects that will help children, young people and families in the care system.

Administered by the Corra Foundation, the second round of The Promise Partnership Fund will be split across third sector and public organisations that prioritise work to:

-         Build supportive workforces that can provide the unique support for young people and families in the care system to thrive

-         Create school structures that provide support, opportunities and a sense of belonging

-         Enhance youth justice and rights to reduce and prevent the criminalisation of children and young people with care experience

The announcement marks the beginning of Care Experienced Week, when people come together to advocate for change and encourage the transformation required to Keep The Promise.

MSP for Renfrewshire North & West and Minister for Keeping the Promise, Natalie Don, said:

"The Promise Partnership Fund is crucial in supporting 42 organisations across Scotland, including here in Renfrewshire, to make the changes needed to enrich the lives of children and young people in or on the edges of care.

“Care Experienced Week starts today and is a key opportunity for Scotland to come together to celebrate and show our love for children and young people who have experienced care. I am determined we keep driving forward the transformational change that is required to Keep The Promise and make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up, where all children are loved, safe, respected and realise their full potential.”

Natalie Don MSP urges residents to shape delivery of Winter Payment

Natalie Don, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North & West, has urged residents in Renfrewshire North & West to take part in the Scottish Government’s consultation on the introduction of the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

From winter 2024, the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which will be an annual payment, will replace the UK government’s Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland.

The Scottish Government are consulting people across Renfrewshire North & West to understand who should be eligible for this payment, when and how it should be delivered, and what measures can be put in place to support those living off the gas grid.  The consultation closes on January 15th 2024.

Natalie Don MSP urging constituents to complete the consultation

This will help ensure the payment is as effective as possible in helping pensioners with their winter heating costs.

Commenting, SNP MSP Natalie Don said:

“The new Pension Age Winter Heating Payment delivered by the SNP Government will help over a million pensioners in Scotland with their heating costs, including thousands in Renfrewshire North & West.

“The SNP Government is committed to helping the most vulnerable through the difficult winter period – but it is vital people make their views known of how this payment can best be delivered.

“Since setting up a devolved social security system with compassion, fairness, and respect at its core – 13 benefits, of which 7 are unique to Scotland, have been established.

"Social Security Scotland is set to deliver £5.3 billion in devolved benefits in 2023-24 alone, supporting over 1.2 million people as the SNP continues to deliver every day for the people of Scotland.”