ALLIANCE respond to poverty-related stigma inquiry
- Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
- Type: News Item
- Published: 11th March 2022
The inquiry into poverty-related stigma is being undertaken by the Scottish Parliament's Cross Party Group on Poverty.
The ALLIANCE have submitted evidence to the Cross Party Group (CPG) on Poverty’s inquiry into poverty-related stigma, highlighting in particular the negative impact of stigma on provision of social security. The CPG on Poverty was launched late in 2021, and chose poverty-related stigma as the subject of its first inquiry beginning in January 2022 (this link will take you away from our website).
In the submission, the ALLIANCE note the existence of a “strivers versus skivers” narrative which stigmatises people receiving social security payments, which are essential for alleviating and eliminating poverty. This stigmatisation has both driven and been driven by ongoing cutbacks to social security, which have had a particular impact on disabled people through tightening of eligibility criteria and payments not keeping pace with increases in the cost of living. The work of the ALLIANCE’s Health and Social Care Academy, Self Management Team and Scotland Reducing Gambling Harms programmes through the “Reducing Stigma, Emphasising Humanity” series was also highlighted.
Although poverty-related stigma is widespread, we welcome recent attitudinal changes in Scotland, as the Scottish Government have recognised social security as a human right, and sought to embed human rights and dignity in the rapidly developing devolved social security system. Our submission further calls for consistent signposting of social security and support services through all available points of contact, to make people aware of their entitlements rather than rely on them seeking out help proactively, which they may be reluctant to do due to stigma.
You can read the full submission in the links below.
End of document.
End of page.
You may also like:
Take part in participant-led rail journey research
Continue readingThe committee wants greater involvement from lived experience to strengthen their work.
Continue readingLived experience and peer support driving mental health transformation in Scotland.
Continue readingThe new platform ‘MyCare.scot’ is being led by the Scottish Government and Public Services Delivery Scotland.
Continue readingRead more about financial support available for unpaid carers in Scotland.
Continue readingAs part of our 20 year anniversary, we celebrate the Scottish Sensory Hub, the important work they do, and why it matters.
Continue readingLucy Mulvagh, Director of Policy, Research and Impact, at the ALLIANCE is moving on after 10 years supporting the organisation.
Continue readingParties set out positions on human rights, social care and more at our hustings ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election.
Continue readingThe Digital Citizen Panel's monthly Conversation Cafe - Bring a Buddy has launched an 'On the Road' offer and is looking for hosts
Continue readingThese stories illustrate how system-minded, compassionate leadership is influencing transformation across health and social care in Scotland
Continue readingAfter the Scottish Government scrapped the initial review, the most recent proposal suggests a smaller number of broader outcomes.
Continue readingCare Roadshow Scotland to showcase leading innovation in care and latest sector updates at upcoming show.
Continue readingThis short report provides an overview of the role of housing in health and social care integration.
Continue readingWorking together to support families through a new whole household approach
Continue readingA coalition of organisations urges immediate support as rising costs threaten people most at risk across Scotland.
Continue readingYoung people’s feedback will help NHS 24 better understand needs and improve support services.
Continue readingALLIANCE input and lived experience evidence help shape stronger, person-centred and trauma-informed maternity care
Continue reading#TryAToolTuesday raises awareness of free and trusted apps and resources that help people improve and manage their health and wellbeing.
Continue readingEuropean Patients Forum announces 2026 training for young patient advocates to build skills and shape healthcare.
Continue readingTake part in this survey if you have a long term condition, are Deaf, Deafblind or have a Visual Impairment
Continue readingLearn more about the Parkrun BSL glossary and YouTube video series
Continue readingFind Lipreading classes local to you
Continue readingPaid internship opportunity for school leavers with Visual Impairment
Continue readingAn examination of the role of social workers in alleviating stigma experienced by members of the Deaf community in Ireland and the UK
Continue readingThis study is for young people aged 12–16 years living in Scotland, who are Blind or have Severe Sight Impairment
Continue reading