More than half a million Scots are struggling to afford food due to the cost-of-living crisis, according to a leading anti-poverty charity’s warning about rising poverty levels across the country. Trussell research revealed that 670,000 Scots, including 170,000 children, are facing difficulties in affording food, marking a 24% increase compared to two decades ago. The charity analysed government data to identify individuals living significantly below the poverty line, putting them at risk of relying on food banks.
Among the findings, researchers highlighted that around one in six children in Scotland fall into this vulnerable category. Furthermore, 325,000 individuals experiencing hardship had at least one working family member, while 390,000 were part of families with a member living with a disability. Trussell has called for urgent action from both the Scottish and UK Governments to alleviate poverty in Scotland.
The charity recommended the implementation of an essentials guarantee within Universal Credit by the UK Government, which could potentially lift 195,000 people in Scotland out of hardship. Likewise, lifting the controversial two-child benefit cap could prevent 45,000 children in Scotland from experiencing poverty. Trussell also urged the Scottish Government to increase the Scottish Child Payment to £40 per week, a move that could benefit 65,000 individuals facing hunger and poverty.
Cara Hilton, senior policy and public affairs manager at Trussell in Scotland, emphasised the need for significant and better-resourced actions to address the record number of people facing hunger and hardship in the country. She called for the Scottish Government to boost the Scottish Child Payment, invest more in affordable housing, and enhance crisis support through the Scottish Welfare Fund.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville stated that no one should have to compromise on essentials like food. The Scottish Government has outlined a three-year plan to improve crisis response and reduce reliance on food parcels, with initiatives such as family payments, including the Scottish Child Payment. As of June 2024, over 325,000 children under 16 were benefiting from the Scottish Child Payment, contributing to poverty reduction efforts.
In response to the situation, a UK Government spokesperson highlighted the commitment to reducing child poverty through a comprehensive strategy. The government is reviewing Universal Credit to address inequality and support families across the UK, including those in Scotland. As efforts to combat poverty continue, concerns persist about the growing number of individuals struggling to afford basic necessities in Scotland amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.