New system fears
The controversial Universal Credit (UC) system has been rolled out to hundreds of jobseekers in East Kilbride.
But there are concerns that families are being plunged into poverty due to failings in the system which replaces up to six benefits into one single payment.
There are 570 claimants across East Kilbride, according to the latest figures from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).
Families on Universal Credit who move into work can claim back up to 85 per cent of their eligible childcare costs.
But there are worries with South Lanarkshire Council leader John Ross last month calling for a halt to the roll-out, saying: “The aim may have been to make the system less complicated but it is clear that in reality Universal Credit is currently making life worse for many families.”
Michelle Campbell, manager at East Kilbride Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), said: “The major worry for us is that the rollout will add to the pressures on local families as some will be forced further into poverty due to the failings of the system.
“East Kilbride CAB is pleased that South Lanarkshire Council is supporting the call for a halt to UC until the problems with the system are sorted out.”
A DWP spokesman said: “Universal Credit lies at the heart of our commitment to help people improve their lives and raise their incomes.
“Continuing to rollout Universal Credit in a safe and controlled way will mean many more will benefit from moving into employment.” Charity chopCaitlin She might be only six years old – but little Caitlin Alexander has proved she has a heart of gold.
The Greenhills schoolgirl told her mum, Gill Crosbie, she wanted to have her hair cut off so she could give it to the Little Princess Trust after seeing sick children on television.
Asking why they didn’t have any hair, Gill explained to the Castlefield Primary pupil that they had cancer.
And after telling her daughter about the Little Princess Trust charity who provide real-hair wigs for little girls with cancer, Caitlin said:“I have a lot of hair...give them some of mine.”
Seven inches was cut from Caitlin’s lovely blonde locks courtesy of Bella Me in Clarkston and £270 was raised on her JustGiving page.
Gill, 28, said:“I’m very proud of her. For being only six years old this is such a kind thing to do and shows beauty is not just on the outside – it was just a bit of hair to her.
“Caitlin was very excited to have her hair cut and pulled a few heart strings in the salon by saying she couldn’t wait to do it again when she was a bit older. “She is an amazing little girl.” Caitlin would like to thank everyone who sponsored her.