A new report highlighting the estimated number of children living in poverty in Dumfries and Galloway has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action from South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth.
The research, conducted by Loughborough University on behalf of the End Child Poverty coalition, paints a distressing picture, with 26 percent of children in the region (equivalent to 6,751 youngsters) experiencing the harsh realities of poverty during the 2021/22 period.
Colin Smyth, in response to the report, expressed his deep concern, describing the figures as “utterly shameful.” He emphasized that poverty is often overlooked or underestimated in rural areas like Dumfries and Galloway, with many perceiving the region as idyllic and untouched by such issues. However, this report lays bare the growing scandal of poverty that numerous local families endure on a daily basis.
As more and more individuals are driven into poverty, it is the innocent children who bear the brunt of the consequences. Smyth urges both the UK and Scottish Governments to confront this scandal head-on and develop comprehensive plans to tackle child poverty effectively.
“This must be a wake-up call,” Smyth asserts, urging authorities to recognize the urgency of the situation. The report’s findings demand immediate action to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable children and provide them with the opportunities they deserve. Smyth stresses that it is imperative for both governments to address the root causes of child poverty and implement sustainable measures to combat this pervasive issue.
The report serves as a stark reminder that behind the picturesque landscapes and charming communities of Dumfries and Galloway, there are children and families who desperately need support and assistance.
One partner. No competitors. Full visibility across the region.
