£5m war chest to fight poverty is set to get the go-ahead

Council bosses are set to approve how cash will be spent as it continues its bid to tackle poverty in Renfrewshire.

A total of £5 million had been set aside in March last year to delivery a tackling poverty programme over five years.

A figure of £730,000 has been dedicated for targeting support to the families that need it the most in the year 2019/2020.

The three Families First teams in Foxbar, Gallowhill and Johnstone will continue to offer early years and family support services, including targeted financial advice and parenting support over the next four years.

These three localities have worked with more than 880 families.

The Healthier Wealthier Children service will continue to provide advice and support to new and expectant parents on managing changes to finances and supporting them to claim benefits.

Energy Advice will also continue to be offered to people who need support to reduce their energy bills, manage fuel debt and improve the energy efficiency in their homes.

Meanwhile, £340,000 is to be put towards removing barriers facing children and youngsters, and £160,000 will support health and wellbeing in young people.

Breakfast clubs will continue in 10 schools, providing a healthy breakfast to all pupils.