Failure to make Rest progress

The Scottish Government spin machine’s use of phrases last week like ‘encouraging progress’ about the works at the Rest and Be Thankful cannot disguise its failure to make any real progress towards a solution.

At an online briefing session last month, I questioned Transport Minister Michael Matheson on why it says it could take at least five years before it even starts work on a proper solution.

He waffled on about planning permission, environmental impact assessments and compensating landowners. This is ridiculous. I’ve attended 14 years of meetings on the A83 and all we get is fobbed off with pathetic excuses.

We need a government which delivers results, not spends all its time plotting to get independence while ignoring the real issues like a closed A83 which blight people’s lives.

Councillor Alan Reid, Cowal. in Scotland, such as the police or children’s services, have been more than 50 per cent higher than the first three months of 2020. And the effects are far from over.

Even with social distancing, there are still many ways you can fundraise for us. From hosting a virtual quiz or coffee morning to selling handmade crafts, cakes or old clothes, we’ve got lots of great virtual fundraising ideas you can try. By volunteering just a couple of hours each month, you can help make 2021 a better year for children.

To find out more or to request your fundraising pack, visit www.nspcc.org.uk/support-us/events-fundraising/new-year-challenge or email jen.lindsay@nspcc.org,uk

Jen Lindsay, community fundraising manager for NSPCC Scotland.