Alison secures commitment over project that helps children in poverty
Alison Johnstone MSP, Health spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, today secured a commitment from the Health Secretary to roll out a project that improves the health of children in poverty by boosting family incomes.
In a Holyrood debate on the NHS, Alison highlighted the Greens' desire to see Glasgow's Healthier Wealthier Children project applied across the country. The project involves midwives and health visitors helping low income families access financial support and is backed by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health.
Alison said:
"Income and health are closely linked, and as we strive to improve public health we must boost incomes for those in most need. The Healthier Wealthier Children project in Glasgow has helped vulnerable families gain an average of over £1,000. I took the opportunity of today's debate to press the Government for a national roll out and I'm pleased that the Health Secretary agreed to this.
"Given the invaluable work midwives and health visitors do, it's essential we see stronger action from Government to support these workers. In the most deprived parts of Scotland staff and resources are under the greatest pressure. Today's commitment is welcome but there is still much to be done."
From the Scottish Greens' 2016 manifesto...
