A CHILDREN’S charity has launched a fresh appeal – after issuing a stark warning over a decade of rising poverty levels.
Aberlour fears long-term implications for children in Scotland’s most deprived areas as a result of the combined impact of the coronavirus pandemic and the end of the Universal Credit uplift.
In response, the charity has launched its “Poverty to Hope Fundraising Appeal” to support children and families through what is going to be a second hard winter.
The charity says it “knows that poverty has long-term effects and is committed to supporting families throughout”.
As restrictions lift and life returns to normal for many, the reality is not the same for the increasing numbers of families trapped in poverty, Aberlour found.
A survey revealed that seven in 10 parents are concerned about their children’s future chances.
More than half (55%) feel anxious about their children staying up to date at school, while 60% of parents are worried about their children’s mental health.
In addition to the Aberlour survey, Scottish Government statistics also shared the news that one in four children in Scotland are estimated to be living in poverty.
Reports of inadequate clothing, uncertainty where the next meal is coming from and fears around the long-term effects on children’s mental health and education have been noted by Aberlour family support workers.
There are also concerns that children are missing out on important opportunities.
Aberlour family support worker Wendy said: “Children affected by poverty are losing out on life experiences. They are not getting the same opportunities as other children. Families are finding it hard to provide for their children and their basic needs are not being met.
“Children are going to bed with empty tummies. It’s heart-breaking.”
Lisamarie, also a family support worker at Aberlour, added: “For families caught in poverty there’s increased chances of poor mental health, domestic abuse, isolation and not making ends meet. Most of all, I worry about the children’s mental health and their future prospects.”
Professor Morag Treanor, from the Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research, warned of the starkness of the situation revealed in the research.
She said: “This survey confirms that more and more Scottish families are being dragged under by the rising tide of poverty and are simply unable to keep their heads above water.”
Donations can be made online at www.aberlour.org.uk/povertytohope
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