First Minister John Swinney has reaffirmed the Scottish Government's commitment to tackling child poverty across Scotland, including North Lanarkshire. This renewed focus comes with the expansion of the Fairer Futures Partnerships to five new local authorities, backed by an investment of £4 million this year. The initiative is designed to provide comprehensive, joined-up support to families through integrating local services such as childcare, education, health, housing, and employment. This strategic approach aims to simplify access to necessary help and dismantle barriers created by poverty.

Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson lauded the First Minister's vision, emphasizing that no child in Scotland should endure poverty. She highlighted John Swinney's leadership in making child poverty eradication a national mission. Adamson noted the positive impact of existing policies like the Scottish Child Payment in Motherwell and Wishaw, anticipating that the expanded Fairer Futures program will further strengthen this support. She contrasted the SNP's