Fairness Commission to be set up in Perth and Kinross

A new programme geared towards tackling inequality in Perth and Kinross will be launched next week.

The Perth and Kinross Fairness Commission will be launching the Fairer Futures programme on Tuesday.

The commission spent several months during 2016 and 2017 meeting people from across Perth and Kinross, hearing their stories and looking at evidence of inequality in our area.

Their concluding report, which was submitted to the council in April, included recommendations for making Perth and Kinross a fairer place, by putting in place an awareness raising programme, tackling low pay and improving outcomes for children living in poverty.

A council spokesperson said: “Fairer Futures aims to take these recommendations forward by giving everyone in Perth and Kinross the opportunity to contribute. Individuals, public sector bodies, private businesses, charities and community groups are all invited to pledge their support by committing to doing something to make the area fairer.

“This could be anything from giving up time to a local charity to a business providing a new service or becoming a livingwage employer.”

Peter Barrett, convener for Perth and Kinross Council’s housing and communities, said: “We are suggesting some simple ways people can pledge support, for example by joining the local credit union or donating to a food bank. We’re hoping local cafes may offer coffees and hairdressers could offer free cuts for people seeking work.”

The commission has been set up by the community planning partnership.