More than two-thirds of taxpayers will pay less on their current income this year under Scotland’s new tax bands. Changes to the Higher and Top rate tax bands, which take effect from today, also mean an additional £428 million will be available in 2018/19 to invest in vital public services and the economy.
Continue reading New tax bands take effect in Scotland today
The Help to Buy (Scotland) scheme will be extended beyond 2019, helping more people purchase a new-build home without the need for a large deposit. From April 2019, a further £100 million will be invested over two years, helping up to 4,000 households to purchase a new home. Continue reading Government extends Help to Buy scheme
The success of Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games continues to draw world-class events, tourists and spending to Scotland, according to a new report on its legacy. Continue reading Glasgow games continue to draw elite events to Scotland, says report
Improved access to support and advice
Significant new rights improving support and recognition for unpaid cares have come into force. Under the Carers (Scotland) Act, all people who provide unpaid care for friends, family, and neighbours will now have the right to a personalised plan. This will identify their needs and help them access information, advice and support, before reaching a crisis point. Continue reading Landmark new rights for unpaid carers
Low income families will have greater access to affordable credit through a new £2 million fund. Announced as part of the Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan, the Scottish Government will provide £1 million to the Carnegie Trust’s Affordable Credit Loan Fund, doubling the size of the fund. Continue reading Credit where it’s due: new support to help reduce the cost of borrowing
The new GP contract for Scotland comes into force today. Backed by investment of £110 million in 2018-19 and jointly developed with the BMA, it will ensure GPs can spend more time with the patients who need them most by ensuring patients can access the right person at the right time. Continue reading Patient care strengthened as new GP contract introduced
Parents of premature and sick newborn babies will receive help meeting the additional costs they face as a result of their baby being in hospital with the introduction of a new £1.5 million fund. From 1 April, the Neonatal Expenses Fund will be available to all parents to support them to spend as much time with their babies as possible, while they are receiving care within a neonatal unit. Continue reading Neonatal Fund will support families through “hugely testing and emotional time”
Research by the Scottish Conservatives has found that the number of Special Constables in Edinburgh has more than halved since 2014 (Division E). Continue reading Number of Special Constables in Edinburgh has more than halved since 2014
A short-term funding agreement has been reached to enable the Scottish Youth Theatre to remain open beyond July 2018, allowing young people across the whole of Scotland to benefit from their programmes. Continue reading Short-term deal saves Scottish Youth Theatre … for now
All homes will have the highest level of protection from smoke and fire, the Scottish Government has announced. Following a consultation on fire and smoke alarms, the existing high standard required in private rented housing will be extended to all homes. Continue reading Safe as Houses: new home safety regulations proposed
