Poverty: Huge rise in Perth and Kinross residents relying on foodbanks.

Arounh 25% of chilhren are living in poor families

Around a quarter of children are growing up in poverty in Tayside and Fife, according to the latest set of stark figures.

Dundee has the highest proportion (27.7%) of youngsters living in poverty when housing costs are deducted, followed by Fife (25%), Angus at 20.5% and Perth and Kinross at the lowest, 18.2%.

The average child poverty percentage for the region is 24%, which is higher than the Scottish average of 21.7%

The grim statistics were released by the End Child Poverty coalition, which is calling for “urgent action” to be taken at UK, Scottish and local government level.

Dundee councillor Jimmy Black, chairman of Dundee Fairness Commission, said: “People are rightly concerned when they hear about child poverty, however we shouldn’t forget that this stems from the parents being poor.

“It is a big mistake to ignore adult poverty. We need to ensure that families as a whole can share in the prosperity of the city and so we should take a coordinated approach.

“For example, the council is taking practical steps such as insulating houses, meaning that families will be spending less on heating bills and will have more money for other things.

“I also hope that the Tay Cities Deal will enable people to gain the skills needed to find well-paid jobs in the new industries in Dundee, such as games and software development.

“The Fairness Commission is now finished and an action plan will be presented at the next policies and resources council meeting.

“The recommendations are relatively small, but practical things, such as looking at the cost of a school day – transport, meals, uniforms, school activities and trips, and looking at how families can be helped to put their children through school without struggling.”

Campaigners are calling for leaders to ensure the Child Poverty (Scotland) Bill addresses poverty at a local level.

John Dickie, director of Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland, said: “Local authorities and their partners know their communities and are in a great position to work with local people to prevent poverty.”

Communities Secretary Angela Constance said: “The Scottish Government is determined to end child poverty by 2030 and actions include a new Best Start Grant which will support low income families with children in the early years.”

The council is tAking prActicAl steps such As insulAting houses, meAning thAt fAmilies will be spending less on heAting bills. DUNDEE COUNCILLOr JIMMY BLACK

Councillor Jimmy Black says a coordinated approach to poverty is needed.