Groups can get funding to tackle one of society's biggest problems

Communities and charities with ideas to tackle child poverty can bid for a new bid for part of a new £7.5 million innovation fund.

Announced as part of the Scottish Government's tackling child poverty delivery plan, the fund, financed by the Scottish Government and the Hunter Foundation, is now open for applications from communities, local charities, health boards and councils.

A panel with membership from across the sector will judge the applications. Applications must support new or existing projects that will have an impact on reducing child poverty by 2030.

Communities secretary Angela Constance said: “We want to tackle child poverty and ensure the very best outcomes for children today, and generations to come. As a government, we are taking bold action through our delivery plan, but we need to work together to make a difference.

"We want to ensure that if actions to tackle poverty are working well in some communities, they can be shared elsewhere so more children and families can benefit. Government can’t end child poverty on our own – so partnerships are vital to make change happen.”

Sir Tom Hunter, chairman of the Hunter Foundation, added: “This is about engaging with local communities and people who can make a real difference. The fund’s priority is to meet the needs of families and carers and up to £100,000 per organisation can make a real difference. It is time Scotland changed the dynamic on poverty and set about leading the world in its eradication.”

The Innovation Fund will support both new and the expansion of existing approaches that have an impact on reducing child poverty by 2030. They should help families to remain out of poverty for a minimum three year period.

A scrutiny panel from across the public, private and third sector will review all applications and develop a shortlist with awards being made no later than 17 August.