MSP Natalie Don-Innes has welcomed the news that the Scottish Government will enshrine in law the requirement to increase social security payments each year in line with inflation.
In the last year the Scottish Government provided £370 million to update payments – £5 million above the amount required in statute – and by making this a legal duty it guarantees that support like the winter heating payments receive a financial boost – especially while the UK Labour government cuts winter fuel payments.
SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North & West, Natalie Don-Innes, said: “Scotland’s social security system – which is rooted in dignity, fairness and respect – has been truly transformational for so many families across Renfrewshire North & West.
“As we build on this progress, it’s crucial we maintain the value of the fourteen payments which are estimated to be keeping 100,000 children out of poverty.
“This legal duty will bring us closer to achieving the First Minister’s goal of ending child poverty while ensuring we continue to do what we can to protect Renfrewshire North & West’s families from continued Westminster austerity.
“Unlike Labour, the SNP will always do right by Renfrewshire North & West’s households, making sure they get the support they need.”
Headline image: Natalie Don-Innes