Red alert on poverty

INCREASING levels of poverty and the prolonged cost of living crisis has put Dumfries and Galloway Council on red alert.

Council bosses who assess the risks that the local authority faces have highlighted the severe challenges of helping residents who are struggling on the breadline.

In an assessment of tackling poverty and inequalities in the region, they have produced a report where the huge demand for support has put service risks as high/very high in the red zone.

The document, which will be presented to councillors at next week’s audit, risk, and scrutiny committee, states: “Our council is facing a significant strategic risk due to increasing levels of poverty and inequality across the region, driven by global and national events.

“The demand on council services has risen as more residents are impacted by poverty.

“Our council is currently mitigating this risk through the poverty and inequalities partnership, internal controls, and targeted funding.”

The council has allocated millions of pounds in its budget over the last few years specifically to combating the cost of living crisis.

In 2023/24, £1.997m was set aside and diverted to various community groups and anti-poverty schemes.

Last year, a total of £1.827m went towards the cost of living crisis and funding 17 different anti-poverty projects.

Council bosses insist that an investment of over £1.1m in Policy Development Funding in early 2025 has also positively impacted communities, supporting initiatives that include food provision, energy payments and advice services.

Still, these huge amounts of cash simply aren’t enough, and foodbank operators recently warned that they expect demand for emergency food parcels to increase in the coming months.

The council report states: “Rising inflation and increasing household debt are pushing more people into crisis, making it difficult for local services to keep up. “Our council acknowledges that many causes of poverty are outwith its control, but emphasises the importance of coordinated, preventative action to reduce future costs.

“Our council’s current response includes direct financial support for residents, proactive debt management policies, free school meals, and long-term employability support.

“It works closely with partners such as Dumfries and Galloway Citizens Advice Service, Fareshare, Credit Unions, and community organisations to provide joined up support.”

It adds: “Our council cannot eliminate poverty, it aims to reduce its worst impacts through effective, targeted, and compassionate interventions.”