1592 families in Stirling have received a £100 COVID winter hardship payment to support them through one of the most difficult winters in living memory.
New figures show that the SNP Government provided support to thousands in each of Scotland’s local authorities – with more than £14million paid out to families in December.
In Stirling, £159,200 was paid out to 1592 families.
The payment, announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, was made available to families who were in receipt of free school meals and was paid from 30th November to the start of the winter school holidays.
Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford said:
‘This winter, the SNP have been making a real difference to people’s lives and helping alleviate some of the severe financial strain families in Stirling have found themselves under. The £100 COVID Winter Hardship Payment, along with the Scottish Child Payment, is all part of Scottish Government efforts to help households through the pandemic.
‘This has been an incredibly difficult time for families in Stirling who may have faced lost earnings, increased food bills and cold weather. The £100 winter payment will hopefully have helped household budgets go a little bit further.’
Local Councillor Evelyn Tweed said:
‘In contrast to the Tories at Westminster, the SNP Scottish Government is doing all it can to ensure kids who receive free school meals do not go hungry.
‘Alongside introducing the Scottish Child Payment, Best Start Grant and Best Food Grants, this SNP Government is committed to supporting children, whereas the Tories are planning to slash Universal Credit and get rid of the £20 uplift when families need it most.
‘The only way Scotland can escape Westminster austerity and build a social security system based on dignity, fairness and respect is by becoming an independent country.’
