Young people are providing positive solutions
Young people in are helping tackle child poverty.
Through the Big Noise programme, run by music and social change charity Sistema Scotland, participants have contributed their ideas to the Scottish Government’s new action plan on child poverty.
A total of 74 young people took part, including six from Govanhill in Glasgow, as well as five from Raploch, 16 from Torry in Aberdeen, 17 from Douglas in Dundee and 30 from Wester Hailes in Edinburgh.
Vicky Williams, chief executive of Sistema Scotland, said: “Putting young people at the heart of finding ways to make sure everyone in Scotland has a decent standard of living, and is able to live their lives to the fullest, is critical.
“We asked young people to consider the Scottish Government’s plans for tackling child poverty, and as expected, their ideas were both sensible and achievable.”
The groups suggested ideas centred on the need for free social activities, youth and after-school clubs, food provision, free childcare and improved transport links, as well as more high-quality, affordable housing.
They highlighted poverty as a lack of money to meet basic needs and spoke about the effects of stigma and negative assumptions, which can limit opportunities and harm confidence.
The young people also emphasised the importance of accessible routes into work, better pay for young workers, and promoting apprenticeships as equal alternatives to university.
In response to the feedback, Williams said: “Our work over the past 17 years shows the positive impact that the provision of free, high-quality after-school activities can have.
“As well as providing free, healthy food and support for families, Big Noise also gives young people the opportunity to learn a new skill and build their confidence.
“It’s so important that young people have their voices heard in decision-making, and we are pleased to play our part in shaping the Scottish Government’s child poverty action plan.”
social justice secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, thanked all the participants for their input.
She said: “Eradicating child poverty is this government’s top priority, and we know that young people are the future of this country.
“I would like to thank everyone who has shared their views with us, and we are committed to listening to what matters most to young people as we take forward detailed work to develop the next tackling child poverty delivery plan.
“We will carefully consider all input and continue to engage with partners as we drive our mission to eradicate poverty and build a fairer Scotland.”
