Covid-19
In Scotland, we are still experiencing some Government restrictions to handle the Covid-19 pandemic. The virus has been persistent and posed many challenges, however, we have made monumental progress in tackling the virus with the rapid development and deployment of the Covid-19 vaccine.
At the end of July, Scotland has vaccinated 4,002,903 people with the first dose, and 3,125,690 with the second dose – this is an outstanding achievement. The vaccination programme, alongside the continued commitment of the public to follow Government restrictions, has played a fundamental part in following the route map out of restrictions at a steady pace.
The Scottish Government is continually reviewing the JCVI’s advise on who can access the Covid-19 vaccine, and recently this has involved discussions about those aged 12-17 receiving the vaccine. The JCVI advise that not all those under 18 should receive the vaccine, however, there are exceptions for those who are vulnerable or who are going to turn 18 by October. Please continue to consult the Scottish Government website for full details on the vaccination programme and Government guidance.
Parliament Business
Parliament has been in recess over the Summer break. However, Parliament has been recalled twice over Summer for vital Covid-19 updates.
Young Person Guarantee
The SNP Government has recently invested £70 million in youth employment as part of its Young Person’s Guarantee. This Scottish Government investment will benefit young people who are looking to enter the workforce. The Young Person’s Guarantee aims to protect people from the economic impact of Covid-19 by offering every 16-24 year old in Scotland the opportunity of a job, apprenticeship, further or higher education, training programme or volunteering. The announcement meets four of the commitments for the first 100 days of this Government.
Transport Decarbonisation Challenge Funds
The Scottish Government is providing up to £1.1 million through two new decarbonisation challenge funds. It is vital to take steps such as this as we transition to a net zero economy in Scotland. The fund will help ensure that the wide ecosystem around the decarbonisation of transport is explored to provide opportunities for businesses to expand technology and solutions, whilst helping meet net zero targets.
Young Patient Family Fund
The Young Patient Family Fund was launched. This fund will help families with the costs of visiting and providing essential care for their children in hospital. The Scottish Government has set aside an initial £5 million for the fund, with actual spending depending on demand.
Constituency this month
- I have met with several constituents via virtual surgeries this month. My office continues to work from home at this time but can still be contacted via email and telephone.
- At the start of July, I visited some local summer youth group projects, including Govan Youth Information Project (GYIP). It was a glorious day and I had great fun joining in some of the activities!
- An excellent project being delivered by Govan Help is the Govan Pantry. I visited their site and loved seeing their chic new look. These groups are providing essential holistic support to families in the local area, and I’d encourage anyone who can benefit from their services to make use of it.
- I enjoyed visiting Southside Housing Association’s Southside Connections initiative in Halfway Park which provides healthy lunches as well as sports and craft activities.
