Council launches consultation on draft Anti-Poverty Strategy

Published: 16th March 2021

Image of cut out people, house and money
House people money

The first phase of the consultation on our draft Anti-Poverty Strategy has been launched and will run from 16 March to 16 May 2021

The Strategy itself has been developed as part a Borders-wide commitment to supporting individuals, families and communities experiencing hardship, whether that is as a result of economic, fuel, housing, food, digital or any other type of hardship.

Phase one of the consultation

This first phase is primarily aimed at partners, stakeholders and other organisations who are involved in providing support to individuals and communities across the Borders, although feedback from members of the public is also welcomed.

Views are being sought on the draft strategy itself as well as what respondents see as the main challenges and opportunities that these issues present to the people of the Borders. There is also scope to provide information about what initiatives and ideas are already proving beneficial and also to suggest recommendations on what else could be done.

Take part in the consultation

  • The first phase of the consultation is open from 16 March to 16 May 2021 and is available on our Citezen Space.
  • It is also available in alternative formats and languages. For more information, email communityengagement@scotborders.gov.uk

Phase two

The second phase will be launched over the next few weeks. The aim will be to gather feedback from individuals and communities with direct experience of the challenges of living on a limited income and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey will be available but there will also be additional opportunities to engage in conversations, either on a one to one basis or as part of online focus groups.

Feedback from both consultations will be incorporated into a final strategy and action plan which will be presented to elected members for approval in June 2021.

Councillor Robin Tatler, Executive Member for Community Development and Localities

“We are urging anyone with a role or interest in providing support to individuals, families and communities on these critical issues to take part in our consultation. We want to have a real in-depth understanding of what the picture looks like in the Borders so that together we can develop a forward thinking, sustainable approach to tackling poverty that will benefit us all.”

Help and support is already available

Councillor Tatler added: “We would also remind people that there is already a great deal of advice, information and support available and people shouldn’t hesitate to get in touch to see how we, and our partner agencies, may be able to help.”

Our Customer Advice and Support Services team can be contacted by phone 0300 100 1800. They are also available to advise on support that can be accessed through our Community Assistance Hubs. Additional information is available about the support available to those affected by COVID-19 as well as general advice on benefits and grants 

More information