FINANCIAL assistance for home care workers could be agreed as Fife Council officials meet today (Thursday).

The Cabinet Committee will discuss a proposal that would help staff deal with rising costs of living.

Graeme Downie, Scottish Labour Councillor for the West Fife and coastal villages, has been campaigning for critical staff to get the assistance that they need, such as increased mileage allowances amid rising fuel costs.

He told the Press: “Rises in bills and volatility in petrol prices has placed a particular burden on home care workers who must use their own car to care for the most vulnerable in our society.

“I have campaigned to increase mileage allowances for these critical staff since I was elected in May so am delighted that the Labour-controlled Fife Council has proposed putting this in to action.”

He previously wrote to the council's health spokesperson, Cllr David Graham, and asked that these workers were given the same pence per mile allowance that has been given to NHS staff.

In August Cllr Graham welcomed the move and said: "I have been assured that the trade unions have been involved and the council has improved the way that expenses are paid to ensure that the workforce isn't out of pocket.

"I have also asked the partnership to look at what can be done to also assist the wider partner network, including third-sector and private providers who are also feeling the pinch of the present crisis."

Cllr Downie continued: “Alongside money to tackle poverty and a £10m Community Recovery Fund, this shows what the Labour Party can deliver when it is in charge.

"While there is undoubtedly more we can do, I look forward to supporting these plans when they are discussed by the committee and recognising the critical work carried out by home care staff.”