Positive action to tackle poverty across North Lanarkshire is continuing

Positive action is being taken to address poverty in North Lanarkshire, with a focus on community well-being, economic inclusion, and support for families facing financial struggles. The North Lanarkshire Council has released an updated Tackling Poverty Strategy and Local Child Poverty Action Report, showcasing significant progress in alleviating poverty and providing assistance to families. Councillor Chris Costello, NLC’s Convener of Wellbeing and Tackling Poverty, emphasized the council’s efforts in targeting key poverty drivers such as employment income, holistic health support, reduced living costs, and benefits access.

One of the key initiatives mentioned in the strategy is the ‘Working Families’ programme, aimed at offering family support and facilitating sustainable employment for local parents. Additionally, measures have been taken to help residents with living costs, including the launch of a dedicated webpage informing them about affordable credit options. The Tackling Poverty team provided debt advice services to nearly 2,000 individuals, addressing over £6.4 million of debt, representing a 14% increase from the previous year.

The welfare rights service offered by NLC’s Tackling Poverty Team has experienced a surge in demand, leading to a 25% rise in referrals and generating almost £48 million in additional benefit income for North Lanarkshire residents. Given the current cost-of-living crisis, the importance of income maximisation through benefit checks has also been underlined, with a significant increase compared to the previous year. The Local Child Poverty Action Report highlighted specific measures to combat child poverty, including tailored poverty awareness sessions engaging various sectors and Whole Family Support initiatives providing integrated financial and emotional assistance to those in need.

Councillor Costello stressed the importance of ensuring access to essential support for all residents of North Lanarkshire, aiming to promote resilience, reduce poverty, and help families thrive in the region. By fostering partnerships and adopting a holistic approach, the council strives to create a brighter future for its community.

In conclusion, North Lanarkshire Council’s ongoing efforts to tackle poverty through a multifaceted approach involving community engagement, economic empowerment, and tailored support for families are commendable. The commitment to addressing key poverty drivers and providing essential services reflects a proactive stance in promoting well-being and inclusivity within the region. By taking comprehensive actions and enhancing collaborative initiatives, North Lanarkshire is working towards a more sustainable and supportive environment for its residents.