INVERCLYDE MSP Stuart McMillan has welcomed the publication of a Scottish Government plan to 'end the need for foodbanks'.

The government has outlined targeted steps ministers will take over the next three years to improve the response to financial hardship.

Only a few weeks before, Ronnie Cowan MP and Mr McMillan had asked for an update from the Social Justice Secretary after statistics were released showing a 36 per cent increase in the number of foodbank parcels distributed to households in Inverclyde last year.

READ MORE: Over 7,000 parcels handed out by Inverclyde Foodbank in a year

Actions in the newly published plan include establishing a new £1.8 million Cash-First Programme to help reduce demand for emergency food parcels by improving urgent access to cash in crisis and associated support.

The government will work with councils, the third sector and community food initiatives to integrate money advice and wider support.

The plan also includes up to £623,000 funding for the British Red Cross to continue a Scottish Crisis Fund.

 

Mr McMillan said: “This plan, the first of its kind by any government in the UK, will support people who face food insecurity and will move Scotland closer to the SNP’s longer-term ambition of a country where there is no need for food banks.

“We want to ensure we reach people in need and I agree with a cash-first approach, backed by advice and support, so people can be supported to strengthen their incomes and prevent future hardship and crisis, allowing them more choice and dignity."