Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Emma Roddick has welcomed the news that Orkney will receive £6,893 from the Scottish Government to support care experienced families or children who are on the edges of care, in addition to the £41m provided nationwide through the Winter Support Fund.

Commenting, Emma Roddick said:

“Many children across Orkney who are on the edges of care or are care experienced are often in families on low income and will be experiencing a cost of living crisis made worse by a UK Tory government that has cut Universal Credit and failed to address the challenge of rising energy prices.

“As the cost of living crisis starts to spiral this will be welcome funding for these families and ensure that they have immediate resources to ensure they can stay together.

“Later this year families will also receive further support from the Scottish Government with the launch the £500m whole family wellbeing fund.

“However, the SNP Scottish Government continues to support families in Orkney and across Scotland with one hand tied behind its back. That is why the people of Scotland must be able to choose a better path towards an independent country.”