Huge drop in child poverty

CHILD poverty levels dropped dramatically in Dumfries and Galloway in the space of just one year, surprise statistics have revealed.

And they are now at the lowest rate since records began in 2015.

There are nearly 1200 fewer children and young people living in poverty in the region compared to previous figures.

Two years ago it was revealed that more than one in four children/young people living here were experiencing poverty.

However, a new Local Child Poverty Action Plan for 2024-2026 details the latest figures (2023-24) and changes.

They will be discussed by councillors at the council’s tackling poverty, inequalities, and housing sub committee next Tuesday.

The document reads: “The rate of child poverty in Dumfries and Galloway in 2023-24 is now 22.7 percent.

“This equates to 5672 children and young people living in poverty in Dumfries and Galloway.

“This is a reduction of 4.2 percent on the previous year. In the previous year 6841 children and young people were living in poverty in Dumfries and Galloway, so this is a reduction of 1169 on the previous year.”

Dumfries and Galloway now has the 15th highest rate of child poverty, having previously been the eighth highest.

It is one of ten local authority areas to see a reduction in child poverty in 2023-24.

The action plan states: “The Dumfries and Galloway rate is now lower than when records began in 2015 when the rate was 23.3 percent.

“Poverty in Dumfries and Galloway may look different in each community but its effects are universally damaging.

“However, poverty is not inevitable. With the right decisions, partnerships, and continued commitment, we can work to ensure that every child in Dumfries and Galloway has the fair start in life they deserve.”

The improvements have been attributed to enhanced cross-sector collaboration to address the root causes of poverty, as well as the delivery of targeted interventions that support families facing multiple disadvantages.

More parents have also been receiving support as part of the DG Works programme, which helps them progress into employment, work experience, volunteering, education and self-employment.