Rona Mackay MSP welcomes £2,000 payment from SNP Scottish Government
Rona Mackay MSP for Strathkelvin and Bearsden has welcomed the announcement that a one-off £2,000 payment from the SNP Scottish Government will be made available to young people who are leaving the care system.
First Minister Humza Yousaf announced the payment following the Independent Care Review’s findings that those with care experience have an increased risk of poor mental health, addiction, homelessness, and exploitation.
The payment is co-designed with care experienced people to ensure that it meets their needs and helps to reduce some of the financial impediments in their way as they seek to live independently.
Ms Mackay said: “The SNP Scottish Government is committed to Keeping the Promise by 2030 to all children and young people leaving care, and part of that is ensuring that they are supported on their journey into adulthood.
“Living independently can be a huge adjustment and comes at a pivotal time for young people leaving care, especially if they don’t have family support.
“The SNP Scottish Government is therefore providing support to care experienced young people across Scotland through the Care Leaver Payment, and this will make a real difference to the lives of young people in my constituency of Strathkelvin and Bearsden and beyond.”