Positive efforts to combat poverty in North Lanarkshire are ongoing, with a focus on community well-being, economic inclusion, and support for children and families facing financial challenges. The North Lanarkshire Council’s updated Tackling Poverty Strategy and Local Child Poverty Action Report have shown significant progress in reducing poverty and providing support to families by promoting resilience and inclusive growth.
Councillor Chris Costello, NLC’s Convener of Wellbeing and Tackling Poverty, emphasised the strategy’s key drivers, including employment income, holistic health and wellbeing support, reduced living costs, and benefits access. Initiatives such as the ‘Working Families’ programme aim to offer family support and enable sustainable employment for local parents.
To address living costs, the council launched a dedicated webpage to inform residents about affordable credit options. The council’s Tackling Poverty team provided debt advice services that assisted nearly 2,000 individuals in managing over £6.4 million in debt, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. The welfare rights service also saw a rise in referrals by 25%, resulting in nearly £48 million in additional benefit income for residents of North Lanarkshire.
The Local Child Poverty Action Report outlines measures taken to decrease child poverty, including targeted poverty awareness sessions engaging with various sectors. Whole Family Support initiatives have been implemented to provide tailored financial and emotional assistance to children and families in need.
Councillor Costello highlighted the importance of ensuring all residents have access to essential support for a brighter future. By strengthening partnership efforts and adopting a holistic approach, the council aims to enhance resilience, reduce poverty, and support families in North Lanarkshire.
In conclusion, the proactive steps taken by North Lanarkshire Council underscore a commitment to addressing poverty in the region comprehensively, with a focus on empowering communities, fostering economic inclusion, and providing vital support to vulnerable families. The council’s dedication to reducing poverty and promoting inclusive growth sets a positive example for other regions facing similar challenges.