Ruth Maguire MSP has highlighted new figures which show the real progress the SNP Scottish Government is making on its key priority of eradicating child poverty in North Ayrshire, and across Scotland, under John Swinney’s leadership.
The statistics show that 11,260 children and young people in North Ayrshire were actively benefiting from the Scottish Child Payment at the end of June. Across Scotland, 322,125 children were receiving support.
12,125 children in North Ayrshire also received Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods payments in this timeframe.
Commenting, Ruth Maguire MSP said:
“Under John Swinney’s leadership, the SNP Scottish Government has made eradicating child poverty its number one priority – with Scotland the only part of the UK where child poverty is expected to fall as a direct result of SNP policies.
“The Scottish Child Payment is making a real difference for families in North Ayrshire. With 11,260 children locally benefitting, this support is helping to put money directly into the pockets of those who need it most, easing household pressures and tackling child poverty head-on.
“While Labour continues to sit on its hands at Westminster by refusing to reverse the cruel two-child cap, one of the biggest drivers of child poverty, the SNP has taken action to effectively scrap the cruel policy in Scotland from next March. That’s the difference that the SNP make, showing what happens when decisions for Scotland are made in Scotland. Just imagine how much more we could do with the full powers of independence.”
Notes:
Social Security Scotland – Scottish Child Payment statistics to 30 June 2025
Social Security Scotland – Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods statistics to 30 June2024
Ruth Maguire MSP (SNP) 