North Lanarkshire Council is ramping up efforts to reduce poverty in the area.

The council has updated its Tackling Poverty Strategy and Local Child Poverty Action Report.

The report highlights the progress in reducing poverty and supporting families.

The focus is on community well-being, economic inclusion, and supporting children and families facing financial hardship.

Councillor Chris Costello, convener of wellbeing and tackling poverty, said: “Our Strategy targets four key poverty drivers - employment income, holistic health and wellbeing supports, reduced living costs and benefits access.

The focus is on community well-being, economic inclusion, and supporting children and families facing financial hardship (Image: North Lanarkshire Council) "With programmes like ‘Working Families,’ we are providing family support and helping with sustainable employment for local parents."

A dedicated webpage was launched to inform residents about affordable credit options.

The council's debt advice services have assisted 1,992 individuals, addressing more than £6.4 million of debt, a 14 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

The welfare rights service of the tackling poverty team has also seen a 25 per cent rise in demand, generating nearly £48 million in additional benefit income for North Lanarkshire residents.

Benefit checks have increased by more than 41 per cent compared to last year, highlighting the importance of accessible income maximisation during the cost-of-living crisis.

The Local Child Poverty Action Report details measures taken to help reduce child poverty, including poverty awareness sessions that have engaged with 328 people across multiple sectors.

Whole family support initiatives are also in place, integrating financial and emotional support tailored to local needs.

Councillor Costello said: "This approach represents a crucial step forward in ensuring every resident of North Lanarkshire has access to essential support and the opportunity for a brighter future.

"By enhancing partnership efforts and embracing a holistic approach, we aim to foster resilience, reduce poverty and support families in our area to thrive."