MOVES to help combat poverty in Dunfermline have been agreed by councillors.

At last week’s City of Dunfermline area committee, councillors discussed the need for funding of £223,601 from the council’s welfare reform budget to help support those families most affected by UK government changes to the welfare reform system.

The council has set aside £5.4million to tackle the impact of welfare reform across Fife. As well as covering the costs of administering the new Government schemes, £1million will go towards developing local support plans.

Committee chair Councillor Helen Law (pictured) said, “This isn’t about giving people handouts. We’re asking for £223,601 for Dunfermline to help us take preventative measures and start fighting back against poverty.” A key part of the plans for Dunfermline will be to develop premises in the city centre as a hub from where it’s planned to offer a range of local support services with third-sector partners including the Credit Union and CARF.

Added Cllr Law, “There is a real need to properly link services together at a central location close to the bus station.

"We have to make sure people have access to money advice and IT equipment and provide support for people to use technology to access benefits and apply for jobs.

“As demand increases for these services from all across West Fife it’s vital that we provide a welfare reform support hub for local families.” Other possible projects include: A new team of workers and advisers who will provide specialist advice and support.

Providing more Digital Skills Courses and Community Job Clubs that will focus on literacy and job searches.

A Voucher/Discretionary Support Scheme for those in greatest need.

Fife Council leader Councillor David Ross said, “We have to be able to assist people when they face a crisis, are particularly vulnerable or in need of help.

"But it’s just as important to try to address the causes of poverty in our communities.

“That’s why the council is investing in schemes to improve skills and training, give our young people work experience and provide more apprenticeships.

“That’s why we’re working with large and small businesses in Fife to provide more jobs and promoting the living wage.

“We’re investing in early years, working with families to give under-threes a good start in life.

"We’re investing in mainstream education and working with Fife College and employers to make sure all our young people get the opportunity to reach their full potential.

"We’re also investing in new housing so that everyone has a decent, warm home they can afford, tackling fuel poverty and helping to improve health.

“In the long run, this investment will benefit everyone in Fife, reduce the need for welfare payments and things like food banks.”