The New Year is here! As we start the first few weeks of 2025, my Annual Report will very soon be delivered to every house in the Mid Fife and Glenrothes constituency. The Annual Report allows MSPs from all over Scotland to share with constituents the work they have been doing on behalf of the communities they represent over the past year. In this year’s edition, you will find updates on casework and my campaigns which have delivered real benefits for local folk, along with details of my visits and engagements across the constituency.
Last week, I was delighted to hold my first engagement of 2025 at Leven Links Golf Course to meet the committee of Leven Golfing Society and to discuss their initiatives to support young people across Levenmouth. The Society are strongly committed to offering opportunities for paid work experience at the course, and already offer free membership for under 16s and maintenance support for Leven’s newly reopened Putting Green. It is always heartening to meet people so dedicated to our local community.
Meanwhile, I want to draw attention to the Scottish Government’s draft Budget – which is being progressed through the Scottish Parliament. Last week, the First Minister, John Swinney, outlined how the budget will help to boost economic growth, eradicate child poverty, invest in green technology, and improve our public services. A Winter Heating Payment will be brought back for every pensioner following the cut from the U.K. Government, the budget will deliver extra money for education for additional support needs and teacher numbers and the budget commits record funding to help improve our National Health Service.
I understand that while the New Year is a time for new beginnings and committing to resolutions, the cold winter months can be a challenge for many. The Scottish Government is offering a wide range of support this winter including the £58.75 Winter Heating Payment, the £251.50 Child Winter Heating Payment, and the Warm Home Discount, which offers £150 off electricity bills for qualifying households. I would encourage constituents to check their eligibility for this assistance by calling the Citizens Advice Money Talk team on 0800 028 1456.
