Deserving poor

New research reveals the poorest are paying the price of Westminster UK-wide welfare reforms, with people in some areas taking an average hit of between £780 and £880 a year. This does nothing for the local economy in deprived areas. Yet the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) claims employment is up, unemployment is falling and welfare reforms are working.

This highlights how out of touch the DWP is with reality. Employment is up, but at what cost to those on zero-hours contracts? Scotland must face up to a future which includes more austerity cuts regardless of who wins the 2015 Westminster elections.

Scotland has an opportunity in September to take control of our welfare provision, giving us a chance to treat our needy with respect and dignity.

Catriona C Clark

Hawthorn Drive