Agenda Document Pack - Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee - 25/03/2026
Renfrewshire Council · 25 March 2026
Back to Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee — 25 March 2026 and its agenda
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18/03/2026 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee Date Time Venue Wednesday, 25 March 2026 10:00 Remote by MS Teams, Membership Councillor Jacqueline Cameron (Convener): Councillor Graeme Clark (Depute Convener): Councillor Neill Graham: Councillor Anne Hannigan: Councillor Marie McGurk: Councillor Iain Nicolson: Councillor Andy Steel: Further Information - online meetings only This meeting is on-line only but is a meeting which is open to members of the public by prior arrangement. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home Published: 18/3/26 MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance
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18/03/2026 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1(a) Cost of Living Update Report by Chief Executive. 1 - 14 1(b) Cost of Living Dashboard 15 - 32 2 Fairer Renfrewshire programme Update Report by Chief Executive. 33 - 40 3 Focus on Advice Provision in Renfrewshire Report and presentation by Connected Communities Manager, Chief Executive's. 41 - 48 4 Child Poverty Accelerator Funding in Renfrewshire Presentation by Connected Communities Manager, Chief Executive's.
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1 OFFICIAL ________________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 25 March 2026 _____________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive _____________________________________________________________________ Heading: Cost-of-living Update ________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 At each of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meetings, an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure has been provided to members. 1.2 Since the last meeting of the Sub-Committee on 28 January 2026, there have been a number of changes in economic factors including a decrease of 7% in the Energy Price Cap from 1 April 2026, meaning households will pay less for their energy use, while inflation reduced to 3% in the 12 months to January, down from 3.4% in December, with food inflation also falling to 3.6% from the 4.5% rate in December 2025. Elected members are asked to note that: • The rate of inflation is standing at 3% in January, falling from 3.4% the previous month and has been above the target rate of 2% set by the UK Government for the Bank of England since October 2024, when it reached 2.3%. • The inflation rate for food has decreased to 3.6% in January, down from 4.5% in December. It remains higher than overall inflation. • The Bank of England interest rate was held at 3.75% in February after cutting rates six times since August 2024. The next announcement is due on 19th March. • The Energy Price Cap, originally introduced by Ofgem in January 2019 to set limits on the underlying rates energy suppliers, is currently set at £1758 from 1 January, and will reduce to £1641 from 1 April. 1.3 This paper provides an overview of information collated by officers in relation to cost of living pressures, at both a national and local level where available. Item 1(a) Page 1 of 48
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2 OFFICIAL 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the content of the report. 3. Background 3.1. At the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting on 28 January 2026, an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure, was examined. Increasing fuel costs and food inflation rates and rents mean that many families are still struggling with costs of living. 3.2. Following a period of relative stability from 2015 to 2021, food prices have become a major driver of overall inflation since 2022. Using ONS figures, it is estimated that in 2025, when compared to 2015, food prices will have increased by 3.2 percentage points more than overall consumer prices. 3.3. Office for National Statistics figures show that costs of living are still very high on people’s agenda. Households are struggling to pay bills and pay off debts as a result of cost of living increases and are defaulting on direct debits. Citizens Advice Scotland in their response to Ofgem’s Debt Relief Scheme reported that the number of people seeking their advice with energy debt has increased by 65% since 2019/20, and the overall quantum of debt people face is up by 130%. 3.4. In addition, data in the recent “Home Truths” report published by Citizens Advice Scotland on housing, indicates that the average rent debt held by private renters is just over £4,000, twice the average debt of social renters. The same report indicates a sharp increase in people coming forward for housing advice – a 9% increase between quarter 1 and quarter 2 2025/26. 3.5. The cost of essentials; food, fuel and housing remain high, and a significant worry for many families in Renfrewshire. 4. Impacts of cost-of-living crisis Living costs 4.1. The latest insights into the cost of living from the Office of National Statistics for the period 3rd December to 4th January found that 88% of those surveyed reported the cost of living as the most important issue facing the UK today, the same as the November figure last reported to the Sub-Committee. Around 62% reported that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, a slight increase from the 61% last reported, with 36% stating it had remained the same. Page 2 of 48
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3 OFFICIAL 4.2. Among those who reported that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, the most commonly reported reasons were increases in the price of food shopping (94%), gas or electricity bills (68%) and the price of fuel (46%). The price of food shopping has been the most commonly reported reason given by adults for a rise in their cost of living since ONS first asked the question in November 2021. 4.3. Further ONS figures show: • Eating out less (58%), buying cheaper food (51%) and buying discounted food (38%) were the most commonly reported actions to save money on food because of the increased cost of living. In Scotland, eating fewer portions of fruit and veg as an action to save money was cited by 15%, more than Wales (10%) and England (12%). • Around one in three adults (34%) who pay energy bills reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these bills; this was more common among adults in socially rented accommodation. • Around one in seven adults in Scotland (15%) reported they were occasionally, hardly ever, or never able to keep comfortably warm in their home in the past two weeks. This figure is less than the English figure (17%) and Welsh figure (20%); this was more common among unemployed adults and adults who rent their home. • In the period 1 October 2025 to 4 January 2026, around 1 in 30 (3%) adults reported that in the past two weeks they or their household had run out of food and could not afford to buy more. • In the period 1 October 2025 to 4 January 2026, among adults currently paying rent or mortgage payments, around 3 in 10 (31%) reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these payments. • 34% of adults say they will not be able to save any money in the next 12 months, while 18% are unsure. 4.4. The ONS also found that 43% of people are shopping around more, with 39% spending less on food and essentials, 61% spending less on non-essentials, and 36% are using less fuel, such as gas or electricity in their homes. 4.5. The ONS also publishes statistics for the UK on Direct Debit failure. The most recent statistics for November 2025 shows a default rate on loans of 5.36%. This is the highest rate since records began in January 2019. 4.6. With regard to Electricity and Gas Direct Debits, the default rate is 3.42%, again the highest rate ever recorded since records began in 2019. Page 3 of 48
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4 OFFICIAL Energy Price Cap and Standing Charges 4.7. The energy price cap is the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge customers for each unit of energy and standing charge if they’re on a standard variable tariff. Between 1 January 26 and 30 March 2026, the energy price cap is set at £1,758 per year for a typical household who use electricity and gas and pay by Direct Debit. This, however, will reduce by 7% to £1641 from 1 April 2026. 4.8. The table below shows the average unit rates per kilowatt hour (kWh) and standing charges per day under the new Price Cap from 1 April to 30June 2026: • Electricity unit rate: 24.67p/kWh (was 27.69p) down 10.9%. • Electricity Standing Charge: 57.21p/day (was 54.75p) up 4.5%. • Gas unit rates: 5.74p/kWh (was 5.93p) down 3.2%. • Gas Standing Charge: 29.09p/day (was 35.09p) down 17.1%. 4.9. Most existing fixed deals from energy suppliers will also fall broadly in line with the 7% reduction. This however is due to a change in policy costs. In last November's Autumn Budget, the UK Government announced it would reduce household energy bills by cutting some underlying structural costs – including reducing the amount households pay towards the 'Renewable Obligation' and ending the 'Energy Company Obligation' scheme. These changes will be factored into April's Price Cap and passed to those on a fixed energy deal. 4.10. In addition, the Government announced earlier this month that it would lower the cost of Standing Charges by shifting costs associated with the Warm Home Discount away from Standing Charges and on to energy unit rates instead. Standing Charges currently make up around £328 of the average annual energy bill. From April, this will fall slightly to £315. 5. Employment and Wages 5.1. According to the ONS, the Claimant Count in January 2026, which is taken from JobcentrePlus administration systems, for those claiming unemployment-related benefits in Renfrewshire is 3,210 people – 1,985 men and 1,225 women aged between 16 and 64. This is an increase from 3,185 last reported. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate of 2.7 % is less than the Scotland rate (3 %). The chart below shows the claimant count by age, showing that for those aged 18 – 24 the percentage of those claiming out of work benefits is slightly higher than the Scottish average, although less than that of Great Britain. Page 4 of 48
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5 OFFICIAL 5.2. Nationally, the UK's unemployment rate has hit a near five-year high of 5.2%. For those aged 16- 24, the unemployment figure was 16.1%, the highest in more than a decade, according to the ONS. When announcing the figures on the 17th February, the ONS said the data showed "weak hiring activity" in the UK, but outlined that there are more people out of work that are now actively looking for jobs. For those in work, wages are still rising faster than prices, but the rate at which they're growing continued to slow. 5.3. Average weekly earnings were estimated at £735 for total earnings and £691 (excluding bonuses) for regular earnings in December 2025. The annual growth in employees' average regular earnings (excluding bonuses) was 4.2% in October to December 2025. This continues the reduction seen in annual growth rates over the last year. The last time it was lower than 4.2% was in November 2021 to January 2022, when it was 4.1%. Annual growth in total earnings (including bonuses) was 4.2% in October to December 2025. Again this continued the general reduction seen in annual growth rates over the last year. 5.4. Over the long term, average weekly earnings for both total and regular pay show a steady increase, with some minor dips. Average weekly earnings were estimated at £739 for total earnings and £687 for regular earnings in July 2025. 5.5. These increases are all above the rate of inflation and ONS figures for the UK show that from the period from October to December 2025, in real terms (adjusted for inflation using the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers' housing costs (CPIH)), annual regular pay growth was 0.5% in October to December 2025. Annual real total pay growth (using CPIH) was also 0.5% in October to December 2025. 5.6. Annual average regular earnings growth was 7.2% for the public sector in October to December 2025 and 3.4% for the private sector. Within the private sector wholesaling, retailing, hotels and restaurants sector remained the strongest in terms of annual growth at 5.1%. Page 5 of 48
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6 OFFICIAL 5.7. Median weekly earnings as reported to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board on 20 January 2026 show average weekly earnings of £797 in 2025. 6. Benefits 6.1. The UK Government has announced the benefit rises that will take place in April 2026. Inflation- linked benefits and tax credits, such as Child Benefit, will rise by 3.8% from April 2026, in line with the annual increase in the Consumer Prices Index rate of inflation for September 2025. Universal Credit standard allowances will receive an additional uplift of 2.3% as specified in the Universal Credit Act 2025. The basic and new State Pensions will be uprated by 4.8% from April 2026, in line with the annual increase in the Average Weekly Earnings index for May–July 2025. 6.2. Due to the increase in line with CPI, and the additional uprating factor, in 2026/27 Universal Credit standard allowances will increase: • From £316.98 to £338.58 per month for single people aged under 25 • From £400.14 to £424.90 per month for single people aged 25 and over • From £497.55 to £528.34 per month for joint claimants both aged under 25 • From £628.10 to £666.97 per month for joint claimants both aged 25 and over 6.3. For state pension, the full rates for 2026/27 will be: • £241.30 per week for the new State Pension (for those reaching State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016) – up from £230.25 in 2025/26. • £184.90 per week for the basic State Pension (the core amount in the old State Pension system) – up from £176.45 in 2025/26. 6.4. Although their effect in any given year is usually not dramatic, uprating decisions and rules compound over time and have substantially changed the value of benefits, both in real terms and relative to earnings. A useful illustration of this provided by the House of Commons Library report of 1 December 2025 is the change in the real value of the basic State Pension compared with basic levels of unemployment support. Page 6 of 48
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7 OFFICIAL 6.5. Rates for these two benefits tracked against one another from their introduction until the 1970s. After that, the rates diverged as pensions were increased by a greater amount with the introduction of earnings links in the 1970s, and the more recent triple lock. Whereas unemployment benefit rates have shown a decades-long downward trend. Household Benefit Cap 6.6. A cap limiting the maximum amount working age households can receive in benefits was introduced in 2013. Although most benefits subject to capping go up with inflation, the cap remained frozen between 2016 and 2023. Since April 2023 the amount has been: • £22,020 for couples and lone parents outside greater London • £13,400 for single adults with no children outside greater London. 6.7. Although as previously reported to elected members, the 2 child limit will be removed from April, JRF in their report ‘UK Poverty 2026: The essential guide to understanding poverty in the UK’, state that the household benefit cap will reduce the positive impact of the lift, as there is still an absolute maximum amount that can be paid with regard to UK benefits. Scottish Benefits 6.8. Scottish Benefits will also be uprated by 3.8% from April 2026. This includes Best Start Foods and Job Start payment where uprating remains at the discretion of Ministers. The earnings limit for Carer Support Payment will also be increased to £204 per week in line with 16 hours work at the rate of the National Living Wage. Page 7 of 48
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8 OFFICIAL 7. Inflation, Food Costs and Foodbank use 7.1. Inflation reduced to 3% in the year to January 2026. This is down from 3.4% in December, although still above the 2% target rate. The main downward drivers for inflation are meat, motor fuel and airfares, although there were increases in hotel stays and takeaways. 7.2. The price of some staples came down slightly in the month to January, including butter, bread and cereals, however costs for food are still well above what they were 5 years ago. Page 8 of 48
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9 OFFICIAL 7.3. The Bank of England expects the inflation rate to fall further over the coming months. In a report published on 5 February 2026, the Bank said it expected inflation to hover at around 3% for the next two months, before dropping sharply to 2.1% in April. This would bring inflation very close to the Bank's target level of 2%. 7.4. Due to timings of the sub-committee, the Foodbank statistics last reported are the most current ones, as the current quarter does not end until 31 March. At this stage the full annual figure will be available, and can be reported to the next sub-committee along with analysis of the annual figures. 8. Interest and Mortgage Rates 8.1. On the 18th December 2025, the Bank of England cut its base interest rate to 3.75%. This rate was held at the most recent announcement on 5 February. If the economy and the outlook for inflation evolve as they expect, there should be scope for some further cuts to the Bank Rate this year, with some analysts expecting three more cuts this year, especially since the most recent inflation rate announcement. These cuts would bring the rate down to a ‘neutral’ level as inflation normalises. 8.2. Since the base rate was cut to 3.75% the average fixed rate mortgage rate has decreased and mortgage rates are predicted to fall further in early 2026, and according to some analysts, throughout 2026. Sharp falls in mortgage rates, however, aren’t expected as much of the predicted outlook for the base rate has already been priced into fixed rate mortgages – the cheapest 2-year fixed rate deals available are below the current base rate of 3.75%, reflecting expectations of further cuts. 8.3. Although rates offered are dependant on circumstances including the amount of deposit paid and value of property, there are currently mortgages available for 3.59% for a fixed term of 2 years. For 5-year fixed terms, for remortgages, the best rate is now 3.71%. As long as the Bank of England base rate remains stable, mortgage rates likely will too. 8.4. As previously reported, however, about 800,000 fixed-rate mortgages, currently with an interest rate of 3% or below, are expected to expire every year, on average, until the end of 2027, so this will still mean an increase in housing costs for those householders. 9. Housing costs Rental Costs 9.1. Private rent prices in Renfrewshire were an average £828 per month in January 2026, down from an average of £832 in November 2025, however an increase of 4.4% from the £793 in January 2025. This was higher than the Scottish figure of 2.6%. 9.2. By how many bedrooms there are in a property, average monthly rents as of January 2026 in Renfrewshire/Inverclyde have shown a slight reduction from the previous report and were: Page 9 of 48
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10 OFFICIAL • One bedroom: £528 (from £528 in November 25) • Two bedrooms: £695 (from £696 in November 25) • Three bedrooms: £896 (from £899 in November 25) • Four or more bedrooms: £1,565 (from £1,577 in November 25) 9.3. Taking the data instead by property type, average rents, again slightly reduced, were: • Flats and maisonettes: £648 • Terraced properties: £827 • Semi-detached properties: £874 • Detached properties: £1,316 9.4. Many private renters are on below-average household incomes. Almost a third rely on housing benefit to support rental costs, where the allowance has not kept pace with rental increases. While rents have reduced very slightly between November and January, the rate compared to the same time the previous year has increased. This means affordability is a growing constraint for renters. Home ownership 9.5. In general, house prices have continued to rise, although there are seasonal fluctuations, and ONS figures show that the average cost of a home in Renfrewshire is now £160,000 in December 2025, up from £153,000 in December 2025, but down from the £161,000 reported for October 25. This is less than the average house price in Scotland which was £191,000 in December 2025. In the year to December 2025, the average price for terraced properties in Renfrewshire rose by 6.4%, while the average price for flats increased by 2.8%. Page 10 of 48
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11 OFFICIAL 9.6. For each property type, average prices as of December 2025 in Renfrewshire were: • Detached properties: £361,000 (down from £362,000 last reported) • Semi-detached properties: £219,000 (down from the £221,000 last reported) • Terraced properties: £163,000 (down from the £164,000 last reported) • Flats and maisonettes: £103,000 (down from the £104,000 last reported) 9.7. The average price paid by first-time buyers was £131,000, which was 4.5% higher than the previous year’s figure of £125,000. For homes bought with a mortgage, the average house price was £174,000, again higher than the £166,000 paid in December 2024, although less than the Scottish average of £198,000. 9.8. According to Adzuna, a recruitment agency, the average salary for jobs advertised in Renfrewshire in January 2026 was £37,395. Salaries in Renfrewshire have gone up 7.9% year-on-year, while the average national change is 2.5%, although salaries have fluctuated throughout the year. 10. JRF Poverty in the UK report 2026 10.1. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) report, ‘UK Poverty 2026: The essential guide to understanding poverty in the UK’, published in January 2026, examines the current state of poverty in the UK. The report found that more people are living in “very deep poverty” across the UK, categorised as households with an income less than 40% of the UK median. 10.2. 48% of households living in some form of poverty fell into the “very deep poverty” category, totalling 6.8 million people. This is highest absolute number and proportion on record. 10.3. The report also found that the food insecurity has also increased by 60% from 21/22 to 23/24, which the report attributes to high inflation rates for food produce alongside stagnation of Page 11 of 48
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12 OFFICIAL incomes. The report cites data from the Office of National Statistics in 2025 showing food and non-alcoholic beverage prices have increased by almost 40% since 2021. 10.4. Scotland’s poverty rate sits at slightly below the UK average, and the impact and prevalence of poverty for certain at-risk groups, detailed below, are all relevant in Scotland as in the rest of the UK. Poverty has a deeper impact on groups such as: • Children – although the removal of the 2-child limit is projected to reduce poverty for children • Disabled people - 28% of disabled people in the UK are living in poverty – 8% higher than the average. The gap is starker for disabled working age adults (33%, compared to the 17% average). • Carers - The poverty rate for carers is 5% over the national average, sitting at 25%. • Minority ethnic groups - Asian and Asian British households experience poverty rates of 38%. The rate is highest in South Asian families, specifically Pakistani (49%) and Bangladeshi families (53%). Black British families had a poverty rate of 39%. Comparably, for white families the rate is 18%. 10.5. The report also highlights that although work has historically been a protective factor against poverty, this is becoming less relevant, with in-work poverty becoming more prevalent particularly for self-employed people. At the time that this report was written, the rates of poverty were as follows for the main economic groups: full-time employed (8%); part-time employed (22%); full-time self-employed (22%); part-time self-employed (28%). 10.6. Unemployment does, however, still carry the most risk of poverty with 53% of those out of work but able in poverty, alongside 37% of those who are economically inactive. 11. Current and potential cost-of-living increases due to the Iran War 11.1. The US-Israeli war with Iran has already had an impact on people's finances in the UK. Petrol and diesel prices have risen since 28 February. By 9 March, average petrol prices had increased by 4.95p to 137.78p a litre, while diesel had increased by 9.43p to 151.81p, according to the RAC motoring organisation which tracks prices at the pump. The chart below shows figures for the 10th March. Page 12 of 48
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13 OFFICIAL 11.2. As reported above, it had been anticipated that there would be a steady fall in interest rates charged on new, fixed mortgages, as well as lower variable rates. This was because the Bank of England base rate was expected to reduce as inflation fell. However due to increased economic uncertainty and the prospect of inflation rates rising, traders now consider it more likely that the Bank of England will raise the base rate, or not go ahead with cutting it as had previously been expected. That means that for those who are taking out a mortgage, or renting from a landlord who has one, in the next few years, there will likely be increased costs to borrowers. 11.3. According to Moneyfacts, on 9 March, 330 residential mortgage products were withdrawn from the market across eight different lenders, with the expectation of repricing them at a higher level. 11.4. While there is some protection in place for household gas and electricity bills thanks to the price cap set by energy regulator Ofgem, this is time bound and does not cover everybody. What happens now and until late May on the wholesale energy market will determine the new price cap from 1 July and a sustained period of high wholesale costs could potentially mean a sharp increase in energy prices. Some energy companies have pulled their fixed rate energy deals, or have now set them at a higher price. Geopolitical uncertainty also means there are likely to be fewer deals with a longer duration. 11.5. The most immediate impact of rising prices is felt by those who use heating oil. Around 130,000 homes in Scotland use heating oil, including some Renfrewshire residents in more rural areas and villages. There is no cap that limits the cost of heating oil and in some cases a doubling of prices has been reported in the national press as well as difficulty in obtaining deliveries. A £53 million support package was announced by the UK government on the 16th March 2026, with £4.6 million of this directed to Scotland. There are no details yet on the detail of how this will be distributed in Scotland. 11.6. Analysts expect inflation to rise, and food costs to increase as products we buy depend on oil and gas to be made, grown or transported to us. They do not, however, think inflation will return to the peak of 11.1% seen in the UK in October 2022. That is because the war in Ukraine also caused spikes in the prices of basic foodstuffs, such as wheat and edible oil, owing to the role of Ukraine in producing those items. This is not the case in the current conflict. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, which provides an overview of the position and is for noting. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – This report provides a detailed summary of the current evidence relating to household income and expenditure. Wider poverty related issues are a key element of both the Council and Community Plan and the information included within this report is part of the wider Strategic Needs Assessment for these plans. 4. Legal - none Page 13 of 48
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14 OFFICIAL 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The report provides an overview of the position around household income and expenditure, and is for noting. As such there are no impacts arising from the recommendation of this paper. It is however important to note that impacts on households explored within this paper are likely to be disproportionately felt by equality groups. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate Risk - none 13. Children’s rights – the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Diane Dunn, Fairer Renfrewshire Manager, diane.dunn@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 14 of 48
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Prepared by: Policy and Partnerships tacklingpoverty@renfrewshire.gov.uk Cost of Living Dashboard March 2026 Fairer Renfrewshire Item 1(b) Page 15 of 48
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Cost of Living Dashboard FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE This dashboard has been developed to provide a summary of key indicators relating to how local households might be impacted by the cost-of-living crisis It has four key sections: economy, social security, financial insecurity and housing Each section has an overview with key indicators and their movement from the last period, supported by additional information and graphs showing further analysis and longer-term trends The dashboard is still in development, and feedback is welcome on the information included and its presentation to ensure it is a useful tool Page 16 of 48
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Key statistics - economy OVERVIEW 3.75% 3.0% £20.73 132.14p 3.6% £1,641 • CPI Inflation and food inflation trend is continuing to reduce. • Interest Rates held at 3.75%. • Energy price cap decreases from April, with prepayment meters comparatively cheaper than direct debit. Page 17 of 48
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Inflation The CPI inflation rate inJanuary 2026 is 3.0%, a drop from the 3.4% rate in December. The increase is not consistent across all categories and there are fluctuations. The reduction in the CPI Rate for January 2026, was largely because of a drop in the price of food and transport. Food prices rose at a rate of 3.6% but there were downward effects to the change in the rate from 6 of the 11 food and non-alcoholic beverages classes. Analysts are predicting that the rate of inflation is likely to fall close to 2.2% in Q4 of 2026, previously forecasting this would happen in 2027. Interest Rates The Bank of England’s base rate was held at 3.75% in February 2026. Interest rates are difficult to predict, however many analysts are predicting rates are on a gradual downward path. Recent price volatility and future price pressures (labour costs, the conflict in the Middle East and global adverse weather conditions) could lead to further increases in inflation which may dampen the likelihood of the interest rate being cut quickly if inflation rates fluctuate. 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 Bank of England Base Rate Changes -5.0 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 Jan-19 May-19 Sep-19 Jan-20 May-20 Sep-20 Jan-21 May-21 Sep-21 Jan-22 May-22 Sep-22 Jan-23 May-23 Sep-23 Jan-24 May-24 Sep-24 Jan-25 May-25 Sep-25 Jan-26 CPI Inflation Rates Food Inflation CPI Page 18 of 48
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Earnings Based on the ONS annual survey of hours and earnings, in 2025 the median hourly pay (excluding overtime) for workers in Renfrewshire is higher compared to that for workers in Scotland, and the rest of Great Britain. It should be noted that the median hourly wage for both males and females in Renfrewshire is higher than the corresponding rates in Scotland and the UK. Employment Rate The ONS Labour Force Survey shows the Claimant Count for those claiming benefits 'principally for the reason of being unemployed', which now stands at 3,210 in January 2026. This is based on numbers claiming JSA and Universal Credit. These numbers are based on those aged 16 and over and are not seasonally adjusted. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate is 2.7% and is less than the Scotland rate (3.0%) and the Great Britain rate (3.9%). £20.73 £20.23 £19.74 £21.54 £20.50 £20.39 £19.98 £19.76 £18.94 £17.50 £18.00 £18.50 £19.00 £19.50 £20.00 £20.50 £21.00 £21.50 £22.00 Renfrewshire Scotland Great Britain Hourly pay excluding overtime Full-time Workers Male Full-time workers Female Full-time workers 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 Apr-23 Jun-23 Aug-23 Oct-23 Dec-23 Feb-24 Apr-24 Jun-24 Aug-24 Oct-24 Dec-24 Feb-25 Apr-25 Jun-25 Aug-25 Oct-25 Dec-25 Renfrewshire Claimant Count Page 19 of 48
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Economic Inactivity The ONS Labour Force Survey also provides details on those aged 16+ that are economically inactive and not seeking work. Between October 2024 to September 2025, of the 27,100 people aged 16-64 that are classed as economically inactive, 87.5% are not looking for employment (either in the long-term or short/medium term). The percentage of economically inactive people aged 16- 64 that want to gain employment (either in long-term or short/medium term) in Renfrewshire (12.5%) is lower than that of the rates in Scotland (18.1%) and Great Britain (20.5%). The Renfrewshire figure could be underestimated due to the sample size. Please note that due to the sample size within Renfrewshire, some categories do not have a reliable estimate (e.g. looking after family/home, temporary sick or other). Student 24% Other 15% Long-Term Sick 34% Retired 15% Looking after family/home 12% Economically Inactive, not looking for work Page 20 of 48
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Fuel Prices From the UK Government’s weekly fuel price publication, the average UK pump price on 2 March 2026 is 132.14 pence per litre for petrol, and 142.15 pence per litre for diesel. The recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East has already seen an increase in the price of oil which could lead to future rises in the price of fuel at the pumps. Energy Price Cap The Energy Price Cap sets a limit on the maximum amount suppliers can charge for each unit of gas and electricity used and sets a maximum daily standing charge. That means there is no upper limit to what a user pays, if more energy is used, more is paid. The Energy Price Cap now changes every three months mainly based on average energy wholesale prices in the months leading up to each change. From April 2026 the Energy Price Cap will decrease to £1,641 per year for those on a monthly direct debit, and to £1,597 per year for those with a prepayment meter. £0 £500 £1,000 £1,500 £2,000 £2,500 £3,000 £3,500 £4,000 £4,500 2020 Winter 2021 Summer 2021 Winter 2022 Summer 2022 Autumn 2023 Winter 2023 Spring 2023 Summer 2023 Autumn 2024 Winter 2024 Spring 2024 Summer 2024 Autumn 2025 Winter 2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025 Autumn 2026 Winter 2026 Spring Direct Debit Prepayment Page 21 of 48
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Key statistics - social security OVERVIEW 21,043 10,410 4,991 4,577 • Households claiming Universal Credit increasing, this includes new cases and managed migration from tax credits and legacy benefits. • Slight decrease in number of children receiving Scottish Child Payment compared to September 2025. Page 22 of 48
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Universal Credit Households on Universal Credit (UC) continue to rise with 21,043 households in Renfrewshire receiving UC as of November 2025 (provisional figures). Starting in August 2023, the managed migration from tax credits to UC contributed to the rises in the UC caseload, with the legacy tax credit system closing for payments in April 2025. From April 2024, the managed migration process commenced for those claimants still on Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance and should be complete by 2026. In July 2025, the DWP published statistics showing the impact of the two-child limit policy on families in receipt of UC. As of April 2025, in Renfrewshire there were 1,170 households in receipt of UC with 3 or more children. Of these, 840 households are not receiving a child element for at least one child. The current monthly UC child element amount is £292.81 per month (rate from April 2025). In the Autumn Budget statement, it was announced that the two-child limit policy will be ended in April 2026. 0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 Number of Renfrewshire Households on UC Page 23 of 48
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Free School Meals and Clothing Grants The 2025/26 Free School Meals and Clothing Grant application process commenced at the start of June 2025. The number of applications received between June 2025 and February 2026 (4,067) is down compared to the corresponding period as last year (4,275). The award rate at the end of February 2026 (81.6%) is higher than at the same point last year (78.0%). This drop could be down to fluctuations in school rolls and eligibility and there could also be less repeat or duplicate applications. Large numbers of Child Tax Credit claimants did not move to UC and therefore could have lost eligibility. 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 Number of FSM/CG Applications Received up to end of February Page 24 of 48
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Key statistics - financial insecurity OVERVIEW 1,315 £0.853m 5,385 2,515 • Foodbank vouchers issued down slightly compared to last quarter, and a decrease compared to the same period last year. • Number of Crisis Grants applications awarded is up compared to the same period last year and spend is up. • Number of people approaching local advice agencies up this period, mirroring the wider trend. Page 25 of 48
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More than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months In terms of more than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months there has been a steady decrease in overall cases. There has been an increase in Benefit Delays/Sanctions, Homelessness and Domestic Abuse being a specified reason in 2025/26 comparing the same period in 2024/25. Foodbank Vouchers Foodbank vouchers issued in Q3 2025/26 (1,315) assisted 912 children and 1,712 adults. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 Foodbank Vouchers Issued by Quarter 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 Awaiting first benefit payment Benefit delay or sanction Debt Domestic abuse Drug or alcohol dependency Homelessness Long term health condition Long term unemployment No access to financial support due to… Other - low income Other Reason for needing more than 3 vouchers in the last 6 months comparison Apr-Dec 2024/25 2025/26 Page 26 of 48
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Advice Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (RCAB) both continue to support a high level of new clients. The number of clients who received appointment support during Q3 2025/26 is 16 more compared to the same period in 2024/25. N.B. These figures do not include the number of calls/emails from people looking for signposting information. Debt Under Management Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau continue to deal with a high level of enquiries regarding debt. The combined level of new debt cases under management is shown below, by quarter over the last 5 years. The levels reported in Q1 for 2024/25 look to be outlier figures with Q1 figures for 2025/26 returning to figures closer to 2023/24 and the remainder of 2024/25 figures. - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Combined Advice New Client Cases 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Combined Advice New Client Cases 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 Page 27 of 48
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Scottish Welfare Fund There have been 8,356 applications for Crisis Grants between April 2025 and February 2026 with £642,660 awarded. This is an average award rate of 64.44%. Nationwide, the main reasons for a CG not being awarded are “reasons for application do not meet the conditions of award” and “excluded as a result of previous applications”. Generally, awards are restricted to 3 within a 12-month rolling period however discretion can be used. In Renfrewshire, discretion isfrequently exercised. Cost-of-living pressures will for many households result in immediate financial crises more often with less flexibility to manage budgets. Nationwide 52% of Crisis Grant awards are made to single persons, with 22% made to single parents. This suggests single people and single parents, who rely on one income within the household, are financially struggling in terms of income and disproportionately by expenditure due to housing, energy, fuel, and food costs. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 July '22 September '22 November '22 January '23 March '23 May '23 July '23 September '23 November '23 January '24 March '24 May '24 July '24 September '24 November '24 January'25 March'25 May'25 July'25 September'25 November'25 January'26 Crisis Grant Applications by month Page 28 of 48
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Key statistics - housing OVERVIEW 16,6855,425 285 4,943 • New homeless cases down slightly in Q2 compared to Q1, although wider trend is upward. • No real change in the proportions of people reporting why they became homeless or where they are from. • More tenants in rent arrears this period, but a decrease in the value of arrears compared to same period last year. Page 29 of 48
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Council Tenants in arrears As at the end of January 2026, 4,943current tenants were in rent arrears totaling £2.65m. This figure includes all levels of arrears, some of which are caused by Universal Credit payment processes. Staff within Housing Services continue to work with tenants to address rent arrears and provide advice/signpost tenants to support services and agencies where financial difficulties are identified. For the period 1 April 2025 – 31 January 2026, 105 tenants have qualified for Tenant Support Fund assistance with £20,236 awarded. Homeless Cases The Housing and Homeless Advice Service had 285 new cases within Q2 in 2025/26 compared to 283 for the same period in 2024/25. The main reasons for presenting as homeless remains relationship breakdowns (family or partner). There is an unprecedented demand for the homeless service with the current caseload the highest on record which puts the service under significant and concerted pressure. There is a 14% increase in applications at the mid-point of 2025/26 compared to 2024/25. The key challenge is the number of homeless cases at any one time, and this puts pressure on the temporary accommodation team who need to find more temporary properties to accommodate families. 221 247 214 250264 261 227 274 244 283 242 246 317 285 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 New Homeless Cases 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 £0 £500,000 £1,000,000 £1,500,000 £2,000,000 £2,500,000 £3,000,000 £3,500,000 £4,000,000 Current Tenant Arrears 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 Page 30 of 48
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Housing CostsAverage Monthly Rent Costs From the Office for National Statistics’ local housing statistics publication for January 2026, figures show average rent changes. These statistics are based predominantly on advertised rents, so do not represent rent changes for existing tenants. Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates are the maximum amount that can be paid for Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Housing Costs) for those renting from a private landlord. Any shortfall between charged rent and the amount of HB/UC Housing Costs awarded would have to be made up by the tenant, although Discretionary Housing Payments can be awarded to provide support. The 2026/27 rates remain frozen at the January 2024 rate. Property Prices and Mortgage Affordability The average price of a home in Renfrewshire was £160,000 in December 2025, which was higher than the average of £153,000 in December 2024. The average price paid by first-time buyers was £131,000 up from £125,000 the previous year. Across Scotland, the average house price in December 2025 was £191,000, which was more than a year earlier (£182,000). Average house prices for all property types continue to rise. The house prices combined with recent higher rates have driven up the average monthly mortgage repayment amounts. Whilst the Bank of England base interest rate fell in December 2025, it is expected that future rates will decline slowly and over a longer timescale to ensure inflation rates remain at levels consistent with the 2% target. Renfrewshire Monthly LHA Rates 2026/27 LHA Rate 1 Bedroom Shared £360 1 Bedroom £400 2 Bedroom £525 3 Bedroom £600 4 Bedroom £1,100 Type of Property Average Price Average Monthly Mortgage Repayment (Assuming 25-year repayment, 4.5% interest rate and 10% deposit) Flat £103,000 £515 Terraced £163,000 £815 Semi-detached £219,000 £1,095 Detached £361,000 £1,805 Average Monthly Rents in Renfrewshire Jan-26 Annual Change in Average Rents 1 Bedroom £528 5.9% 2 Bedroom £695 5.0% 3 Bedroom £896 4.6% 4 or more Bedrooms £1,565 3.1% Page 31 of 48
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1 OFFICIAL ___________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 25 March 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. The Council and partners have a key focus on tackling inequality and improving wellbeing and have longstanding programmes of work and partnership arrangements in place such as the Tackling Poverty Programme and the change programme established in response to the findings of the Renfrewshire Drug and Alcohol Commission. 1.2. At Council on 2 March 2023 members reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme and outlined several investments including bringing together the current Fairer Renfrewshire funding alongside the Tackling Poverty and Social Renewal reserve funds into a single resource. 1.3. At Council on 26th February 2026, members further reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme with continued investments in a number of targeted interventions including the £50 winter school clothing payment, the winter connections programme, funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support their welfare rights advocacy service and schools advice as well as an allocation of further funding to supplement both Discretionary Housing Payments and Scottish Welfare Fund. 1.4. At Leadership Board on 3 December 2025, a Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan detailing the priorities and programme of work to be undertaken over the next 18-24 months was approved. This plan refreshes and sharpens focus on the priorities for the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme. 1.5. Over the next two years, we will concentrate on four strategic priorities: • Improving Financial Security - Helping households maximise income, reduce costs, and access early help to prevent crisis. Item 2 Page 33 of 48
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2 OFFICIAL • Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community - Supporting families and communities through sustainable models of care, food security, and place-based approaches. • Embedding Equality and Inclusion - Ensuring services are accessible, inclusive, and shaped by the voices of those who are often unheard. • Using Insight and Evidence for Impact - Harnessing data, feedback, and lived experience to drive better decisions and deliver measurable change. 1.6. In line with this plan, key priorities for the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme for January to March 2026 are as follows: • Development of our advancement of equality of opportunity programme • Finalise the re-commissioning of external advice contract • Support the organisations taking part in this year’s Winter Connections programme • Evaluate the legacy Tackling Poverty projects which are part of the fairer Renfrewshire programme and consider sustainability options. 1.7. Progress updates are contained in Section 4 and 5 of this report. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the report. 3. Background 3.1 As highlighted in Section 1, the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme brings together a number of existing programmes of work focussed on achieving fairness and equity. After a refresh approved by Leadership Board, the programme currently works to deliver against 4 key themes: · Improving financial security · Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community · Embedding Equality and Inclusion · Using Insight and Evidence for Impact 3.2 Work has been undertaken to evaluate the legacy Tackling Poverty projects which are part of the Fairer Renfrewshire programme and consider sustainability options, and summaries of key findings from these evaluations are provided within this report. 4. Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update Strategic Priority One: Improving Financial Security 4.1. Further to discussion at Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee in January, it was a suggested that further detail was brought to sub-committee with a focus on the provision of advice services Page 34 of 48
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3 OFFICIAL across Renfrewshire. As such, a separate paper has been prepared for Sub-Committee which provides further detail on actions detailed within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to improve access to income advice and support. Cost of the School Day evaluation 4.2. As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Cost of the School Day fund. Cost of the School Day aims to support schools to identify and address financial barriers faced by families, particularly those with low incomes, related to the costs associated with participating in school life. 4.3. The evaluation found that the cost-of-living crisis has increased the need for support for many of these families and this increase in need has changed how schools use their Cost of the School Day (COSD) funding. The funding has raised awareness within schools of the impact of financial pressures on families, with schools being able to respond flexibly to the unique needs of their pupils and their families. 4.4. Although the funding is limited, schools agree that it has been instrumental in reducing the barriers to participation in school activities with associated costs and has helped to minimise the risk of any child/young person being unintentionally discriminated against due to financial circumstances. Schools have been better able to support learners from low-income families, with 60% of schools reporting that educational attainment has been positively impacted. Strategic Priority Two: Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community Skoobmobile evaluation 4.5. As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Skoobmobile, which is partially funded through Fairer Renfrewshire. 4.6. The Skoobmobile plays an important role in providing a mobile public library service in areas where public libraries are not available or are less accessible. During 2024/25 the outreach service has carried out 476 visits engaging with 10,014 children and 2,378 adults. The service has also been instrumental in encouraging families to join Renfrewshire Libraries, with 91 new registrations and 2,591 books borrowed over the year. 4.7. The service provided a wide range of support through nursery and school visits, bedtime reading and Bookbug sessions, attendance at gala days and outreach provision in communities. The Skoobmobile staff also worked closely with the Whole Family Wellbeing Service to add value to their service. In Autumn, public Wi-Fi was installed onboard the Skoobmobile which is now a Digizone offering free Wi-Fi access throughout Renfrewshire. Staff are also working with Digital Page 35 of 48
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4 OFFICIAL Champions about offering support at outreach visits to promote the databank, digital assistance and onboard Wi-Fi. 4.8. The bus is also in great demand during the school holidays, giving families free access to activities without having to travel or make and keep reservations. It is an important part of the Council’s Summer of Fun programme, providing flexibility to deliver services in areas where there are no other activities being delivered. The service continues to deliver a programme promoting learning through play, books and digital activity which has literacy and a love of reading at its core. 4.9. It is further noted that at its budget meeting, Council committed £300,000 to fund the replacement and fit out of a replacement vehicle, recognising that the current model of service provision also requires modernisation into a sustainable, flexible outreach service. This work to consider the a longer term sustainable service delivery model was already identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan, and officers will continue to work with OneRen colleagues to progress this. Hearty Lives evaluation 4.10. As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Peer Health Education project, Hearty Lives. This project is a collaboration between Renfrewshire’s High Schools and Active Communities to support young people in schools to become Peer Health Educators. A teacher at each school acts as a ‘project leader’ and is supported by Active Communities. Pupils are trained and supported to become Peer Health Educators and to lead activities in their schools which support healthy living, for example, mental health, healthy eating, drugs and alcohol, physical activity and sexual health. 4.11. The Hearty Lives programme has been found to increase focus in schools on supporting young people with mental health and other health related topics by providing engaging, fun activities led by peers and delivered in supportive, safe and inclusive spaces. 4.12. Evaluation found that peer educators have enjoyed being mentors to younger pupils and have increased confidence due to their training and delivery of workshops and lunchtime clubs. The programme has raised awareness of mental health issues and has improved understanding of the issues affecting young people in each school. Participation in the programme has equipped peer educators with skills that will be helpful for future volunteering and work experience, including organisation, communication and leadership skills. The programme has also led to pupils reflecting on their own mental health and, in some cases, benefiting from sharing these experiences with others. Page 36 of 48
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5 OFFICIAL Winter Connections 4.13. At Leadership Board in May 2025, it was agreed that £75,000 of funding be allocated from Fairer Renfrewshire programme to provide small grants to local organisations to support a Winter Connections programme in partnership with local organisations. The programme aims to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. 4.14. The Winter Connections programme continues to run until the end of March and on closing will be evaluated, with the evaluation report brought forward to the Sub-Committee for consideration. At Council’s budget meeting in February, there was a continued commitment for Winter Connections identified for 2026/27, and work will now be undertaken to develop and deliver this year’s 26/27 programme informed by the evaluation. Strategic priority three: Embedding Equality and Inclusion Digital champions evaluation 4.15. The aim of the Digital Champions network is to provide accessible support across Renfrewshire to residents who are digitally excluded and to increase confidence and skills in using digital devices so that residents remain connected. Funding supports a Digital Champions Coordinator to recruit and train a network of ‘Digital Champions’ who use what they have learned through a training programme to support others. 4.16. Digital Champions are based in four of Renfrewshire’s libraries (Johnstone, Paisley, Renfrew and Ferguslie Park) and deliver a two-hour weekly drop-in session as well as one-to-one sessions that teach basic skills in using a smart phone, tablet, laptop or computer. Learners can be signposted by library staff or staff in other organisations such as the Health and Social Care Partnership, the Job Centre and ROAR. 4.17. In 2024/25 there were a total of 36 trained Digital Champions volunteering across Renfrewshire. From figures between April 2024 and March 2025 there were 1,252.5 hours of support delivered by Digital Champion volunteers at 499 sessions. From April 2025 to September 2025 a further 560.5 volunteer hours were delivered over 332 sessions. Since April 2024, over 200 data sims have also been provided by Digital Champions to individuals from a low-income household to access data from the Databank. 4.18. The service has resulted in increased confidence and skills in using digital devices for those who attend drop-ins by creating accessible spaces for people to learn and volunteers who are friendly, approachable and non-judgemental. It has also provided volunteering experience that has, in some cases, resulted in employment opportunities for Digital Champions. Page 37 of 48
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6 OFFICIAL New Scots Needs Assessment 4.19. Officers have worked with partners over the past 12-18 months to form a Strategic Migration Group (SMG) to consider the impact of Renfrewshire’s changing population, and to commence the process of developing a New Scots action plan for Renfrewshire. 4.20. An initial data / needs assessment was carried out on behalf of the SMG in summer 2025, with the data presented to the SMG at a workshop in October 2025. The workshop was attended by members of the SMG, other senior Council officers, with partner representation from One Ren, RHSCP, Police Scotland, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Engage Renfrewshire and Pachedu. The workshop asked participants to consider information available on provision and support for New Scots. The SMG met in February to discuss the emerging issues from the feedback gathered during the session and develop the next steps of the needs assessment. 4.21. Officers will also continue to work proactively with partners and the wider community to identify opportunities to support Renfrewshire’s communities in relation to issues raised during the discussion, with various partnership discussions being scheduled to explore some of the opportunities and challenges being identified. Equalities Outcomes Consultation 4.22. In May 2025 Council was presented with a set of draft Equality Outcomes for 2025-2029, based on data, evidence and insight into the inequalities that exist in Renfrewshire. These draft Outcomes were subject to a full consultation throughout from September to October 2025. From the consultation responses themes for a supporting action plan have been identified, with further presentation brought to the Sub-Committee. The Equalities Outcome Action Plan will be brought to the next Leadership Board for approval. Strategic Priority four: Using Insight and Evidence for Impact Child Poverty Accelerator Fund 4.23. In January, Renfrewshire Council was notified that it had been successful in a bid for funding from the Scottish Government’s Child Poverty Accelerator Fund. The funding will be used to create a locally governed 'Insight Partnership' that uses existing data to identify families showing early signs of child poverty risk. The partnership will connect these families quickly to the right support, including income maximisation, employability help, cost of living advice and family wellbeing services. 4.24. Given the focus in the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan on leveraging external funding opportunities, and the key role this project will play in the delivery of the plan’s cross cutting Page 38 of 48
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7 OFFICIAL themes, a separate presentation detailing this project is tabled for the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub- Committee this cycle. Lived Experience Panel 4.25. Elected Members have been given a number of updates relating to work of the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel. Since the last Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting, the panel have met with the Council’s Sustainability Lead Officer with regards to developing a Climate Adaption Plan and Chief Officer of Renfrewshire HSCP. 4.26. The Panel will also meet with the Community Justice Lead Officer in early March and will meet Research Resource in late March as part of the residents’ research to discuss budget priorities and place and neighbourhood. 5. Next Steps 5.1. Work is underway to finalise the Fairer Renfrewshire programme for 2026/27, and this will be presented to Leadership Board in April for agreement. 5.2. The Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan will also be updated to reflect the commitments made at the Council’s budget meeting in February 2026. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The Fairer Renfrewshire Programme is a key driver in achieving the ‘Fair’ strategic outcome and theme within the Council Plan, and covers a number of the key actions identified in the plan. It also represents a significant partnership programme of work which supports the ‘Fair’ theme within the Community Plan, with dedicated partnership governance being established to ensure alignment between these areas of work. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – Equality and human rights are a key pillar of this plan, and it is anticipated that the programme will likely advance equality of opportunity. 8. Health and Safety - none Page 39 of 48
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8 OFFICIAL 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate risk – none 13. Children’s rights - the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Annabelle Walter, Connected Communities Manager Page 40 of 48
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1 OFFICIAL ________________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 25th March 2026 _____________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive _____________________________________________________________________ Heading: Focus on: Advice in Renfrewshire ________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. Further to discussion at Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee in January, it was a suggested that further detail was brought to sub-committee with a focus on the provision of advice services across Renfrewshire, and to invite key local providers of advice services to share insights around the experiences of households in Renfrewshire. 1.2. This paper provides an overview of current provision of advice services across Renfrewshire, as well as actions being progressed as part of the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee: • Note the content of the report 3. Background 3.1. A key priority within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan is ‘Improving Financial Security’, which focussed on supporting households to increase income and reduce essential costs, tackling the root causes of poverty. Many actions in this theme build on Renfrewshire’s long-standing commitment to addressing poverty, alongside recent coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. Item 3 Page 41 of 48
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2 OFFICIAL 3.2. The Action Plan recognises that Renfrewshire has a strong network of services across the public and third sectors aimed at improving financial security, with innovative interventions for priority groups. These efforts deliver real impact - local advice services helped put over £17 million back into residents’ pockets in 2024/25. However, demand continues to rise, and services can be oversubscribed. Residents tell us that navigating support can be challenging, as provision is fragmented and sometimes tied to short-term funding. 3.3. As part of this priority, there are five actions focussed on improving access to income advice and support: • Ensure the provision of money and benefits advice • Coordinate Advice Partnership Renfrewshire to streamline provision • Identify need and increase outreach for advice services • Promote Family Advice Pathway across Council services and Advice Partnership • Continue targeted income maximisation for low-income families with children 3.4. This report provides further detail on work currently being undertaken to deliver these actions across Renfrewshire. 4. Improving access to income advice and support Ensure the provision of money and benefits advice 4.1. The core provision of money and benefits advice in Renfrewshire is provided in two main ways, the Advice Works service based within Renfrewshire Council, and commissioned external advice services provided by Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (RCAB). 4.2. Both RCAB and Advice Works are experiencing higher levels of initial contacts than in previous years. Although full data for 2025/26 is not yet available, the trend of increased contacts has continued throughout the first three quarters of the year. 4.3. Further information is provided below on client demand and service outcomes for both Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau and for Advice Works. It should be noted that while both provide key money and benefits advice services across Renfrewshire, they do provide different services and statistics may not be directly comparable across the two providers. Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau 4.4. As part of these arrangements, RCAB provide both a general and a legal advice service to Renfrewshire residents. The Council also separately fund Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to provide a Welfare Rights service. 4.5. As reported within the Fairer Renfrewshire update paper, officers are currently working on contract arrangements with RCAB for July 2026 onwards. This will be submitted to Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board for approval in June 2026. Page 42 of 48
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3 OFFICIAL 4.6. For RCAB, the number of contacts in 2024/25 is 6.9% higher than in 2022/23, although the number of appointments required following contact dropped by 13.7%. 4.7. With respect to the RCAB general advice service, the most popular matter people seek advice for is Social Security Benefits/Tax Credits/NI followed by Other and then Debt (non-housing). The “Other” category can include consumer, discrimination, education, health and community care, relationships, tax, travel, transport and holidays within General Advice. 4.8. Immigration, Asylum and Nationality cases have shown the biggest increase in 2024/25 compared to 2022/23 with a 91.9% increase. Housing cases have increased by 20.2% with debt cases increasing by 16%. On the other hand, Financial Products and Services cases have fallen by 56.1%. The Legal Service has seen an increase in Homelessness cases of 107.7% although Housing has seen a drop of 40%. Other significant changes are increases to employment (60.9%), disability (33.3%) and debt (22.5%) cases, with welfare rights (-44.4%), other (-36.7%) and community care (-20%) cases showing reductions. 4.9. Key client outcomes monitored for the RCAB general advice service are client financial gain, and the new cases within debt under management. • The Client Financial Gain in 2024/25 was £2,483,019 in 2024/25, compared to £2,099,325 in 2023/24 and £1,807,916 in 2022/23. • The Debt Under Management was £3,211,610 in 2024/25, £2,522,492 in 2023/24 and £2,120,139 in 2022/23. Advice Works 4.10. The types of cases that Advice Works assist with fall in a narrower group, compared to RCAB, due to the nature of the service. Primarily, the two areas of support provided fall under money advice (debt/rent arrears), or welfare rights advice (benefits, discretionary payments etc). Advice Works can signpost or refer for other areas of support required from a query, for instance housing, employment and immigration. 4.11. Key client outcomes monitored for the Advice Works service are client financial gain, either from new claims or mandatory reconsiderations and debt under management. • The total client financial gain was £14,066,215 in 2024/25, compared to £10,682,437 in 2023/24, and £15,968,284 in 2022/23 • The Debt Under Management was £12,222,768 in 2024/25, £3,459,609 in 2023/24 and £1,169,891 in 2022/23. 4.12. The numbers choosing a debt strategy (equivalent to reaching a debt solution) has increased by 216% in 2024/25 compared to 2022/23, with the total debt under management increasing by 945% comparing the same period. The total debts under management in 2024/25 has significantly increased compared to 2022/23 with almost 1/3 of the debt in 2024/25 being categorised as “Credit Card” debt. Page 43 of 48
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4 OFFICIAL Coordinate Advice Partnership Renfrewshire to streamline provision 4.13. Officers work with a wide range of partners across Renfrewshire involved in the provision of advice services, and a key mechanism for this is the Advice Partnership Renfrewshire. The partnership is chaired by the Council and comprised of a wide range of partners including; Advice Works, RCAB, Social Security Scotland, NHS GGC, Renfrewshire HSCP and various other local third sector organisations as well as Improving the Cancer Journey. 4.14. The Advice Partnership meets on a bi-monthly basis to share local service updates and information, as well as having guest presentations on new and emerging areas of interest. Identify need and increase outreach for advice services 4.15. Both Advice Works and RCAB provide outreach services as part of their service provision, and services work together to coordinate outreach and avoid duplication, while looking at provision across Renfrewshire. 4.16. Currently advice outreach is offered in a number of locations, with RCAB sessions including Renfrew Library, Bishopton Cornerstone and Active Communities Pantry in Johnstone. Over the last month, Advice Works have agreed to provide an outreach service in STAR Project, while RCAB are considering locations for further outreach to start in April. Promote Family Advice Pathway across Council services and Advice Partnership 4.17. Officers have been working to develop a family advice pathway to increase and streamline referrals to advice provision for families. To simplify the available advice streams, a family advice pathway was created to illustratively bring together the School Support Service, Family Advice Service, including what was previously Healthier Wealthier Children and emergency support under an overarching family advice picture in Renfrewshire. The pathway shows a clear and concise route to the appropriate advice provider and their contact details, depending on what support each family needs at that point in time. 4.18. The family advice pathway has been circulated amongst the Whole Family Wellbeing team to provide quick reference material on the available support for families that are experiencing money and/or debt worries, including urgent issues. In addition, the pathway has been presented to the Advice Partnership, and subsequently circulated, to strengthen the awareness of the pathway ensuring a consistency of signposting, advice and referrals. 4.19. Officers will attend the “All Sectors Head of Establishment” meeting scheduled for 26th of March to further promote advice services, primarily the Family Advice Service from Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau’s School Support Service. The benefits of financial advice will be discussed along with highlighting the recent statistics around client financial gains and successful outcomes. This should encourage school staff and Head Teachers to recognise potential signs of a family having money and debt worries, and how to appropriately refer families for advice and support. Page 44 of 48
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5 OFFICIAL Continue targeted income maximisation for low-income families with children 4.20. The Council are involved in a number of projects and initiatives to provide targeted income maximisation for low-income families with children, aligned to the Council’s focus on tackling child poverty. 4.21. The Family Advice Service is provided by Advice Works for families with children from birth throughout primary school. This also includes the ‘Healthier, Wealthier Children’ work which provides income advice to families from birth, with developed pathways with health visitors and other services such as GPs, hospital services and social work. 4.22. The Schools Support Service is provided by Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau for families with children in secondary education and within the Council’s two ASN schools. This service is embedded within schools. 4.23. The Council also work in partnership with Renfrewshire HSCP and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support delivery of the Stronger Start project. Stronger Start is an advice and advocacy project provided to women in Renfrewshire, West Dunbartonshire and Inverclyde on the Blossom maternity pathway. This includes women who may be navigating mental health challenges; housing insecurity or homelessness; financial hardship; involvement with social work services; experiences with alcohol or drug use; or the impacts of gender based violence, as well as women who have become parents at a younger age. 4.24. The project is funded by the National Lottery Improving Lives Fund and is delivered by Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau. It is funded until January 2027. 4.25. The project was subject to an external evaluation in 2025, which stated “Overall, the evaluation has demonstrated the effectiveness of the Stronger Start project in improving the circumstances and outlook for vulnerable pregnant women, including effecting significant measurable financial gains, and taking a holistic approach to identifying needs, providing advice and support, advocating on their behalf, and working collaboratively with service users to achieve goals. For a client group recognised as being harder to reach and less likely to engage with services, the project is providing much needed support, with pregnancy being an optimal time for providing an opportunity for intervention. Service users’ views have been very positive, and there was clear gratitude for the project, the support they received and the dedication of the project staff. The project is meeting needs that are not being met elsewhere. The description by some service users of the project as a ‘lifeline’ appears apt. The evaluation highlighted some examples of service users for whom the project made a hugely positive difference in very drastic circumstances, and without the support of the project, it is clear that outcomes could have been catastrophic.” 5. Next steps 5.1. It is recognised that advice plays a key role in supporting households through challenging financial circumstances. In the coming months, Advice Works and RCAB will look to further Page 45 of 48
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6 OFFICIAL coordinate services to reach those who face barriers in accessing advice and to encourage clients to engage earlier and obtain advice before crisis point is reached. This includes the production of marketing materials in different languages, as well as a review of outreach to ensure best reach. 5.2. Services will also support clients to access other support available, including crisis support such as energy advice and food supports. 5.3. As part of the Fairer Renfrewshire Plan, both Advice Works and RCAB will support the Connected Communities team to gain further understanding and with the development required to improve pathways and supports for those in financial crisis – especially those with chronic low income. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, which provides an overview of advice services provided in Renfrewshire. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The provision of advice services is a key part of the Council’s Fairer Renfrewshire agenda, which directly delivers against the fairness themes and priorities at the heart of both the Council and Community Plan. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The provision of advice services has a positive impact on equalities groups across Renfrewshire, who are in many cases overrepresented within lower income groups. This report provides information for noting and as such there are no equalities implications arising from the recommendations. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. COSLA Policy Position – none 13. Climate Risk – none Page 46 of 48
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7 OFFICIAL 14. Children’s Rights – The provision of advice services supports a number of children’s rights, particularly those related to the survival and development of children and for the provision of their basic needs. The report also provides specific information about how advice services are targeted to families with children. This report provides information for noting and as such there are no children’s rights implications arising from the recommendations. Author: Annabelle Walter, Connected Communities Manager Page 47 of 48
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