Standing Up for Families Across Our Community

A big priority of mines is ensuring that families across Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock get the support, security and opportunities they deserve.

I have spoken with countless parents, young people and local services about the pressures they face – from long NHS waiting lists to the rising number of children in temporary accommodation, and the lack of childcare and specialist support in schools.

After many years in government, the SNP have not delivered the basics that families rely on. People are concerned about the growing hospital waiting lists, the thousands of children without a permeant home, a sharp fall in registered childminders, and reduced support for young people with additional needs.

I also am concerned and focus on bringing light to the cuts in college budgets and high rejection rates for mental health referrals as barriers holding young people back.

The UK Labour Government has delivered an additional £10.3 billion for Scotland since the last election. Scottish Labour has set out plans that I believe will make a real difference for families: fixing the NHS and restoring access to family doctors, ensuring every child gets the best start in life, strenghtening community safety, creating jobs and supporting local businesses, and ending waste so public money is spent where it matters most.

I support a government in Scotland that focuses on the fundamentals – strong public services, safe communities and opportunities for every family. This approach will help build a Scotland that works for the people who live and work here.