Local Contributions to Tackling Poverty and Inequality in Scotland: Briefing for the Poverty and Inequality Commission

This report considers the contribution of local action to tackle poverty and inequality in Scotland, specifically, local action at the administrative scale of the local authority. It draws upon various Scottish Government papers and analyses, and this author’s reflections on local anti-poverty action in Scotland since the introduction of the Scottish Executive back in 1999. The main body of the briefing comprises five substantive sections, three of which are discursive, two of which are empirical. Following the introduction, the role of the local authority in tackling poverty in Scotland is reviewed (section 2), the specific actions and responsibilities are considered (section 3) and the evidence base for understanding local poverty is appraised (section 4). Notwithstanding these limitations, prior to conclusion, the incidence of poverty across (section 5) and within (section 6) local authorities is summarized.