At the first meeting after the Scottish Local Government elections, councillors agreed an emergency motion to create a £600,000 financial inclusion fund aimed at those renting non-council properties. This fund will offer similar support to these tenants as the existing tenancy sustainment fund does for council tenants.

An additional £104,000 has also been agreed to deliver an extension of the food insecurity in holiday periods scheme. This funding will enable council staff to plan for the provision of food and activities for the most disadvantaged young people and their families throughout the October, Christmas and Easter breaks.

Council leader, Councillor Grant Laing, said: “The cost of living crisis and the continuing Covid recovery situation continues to put more pressure than ever before on some of the most vulnerable residents of Perth and Kinross and we must take immediate action.

“Food and shelter are two of the most basic human needs, and this investment will help adults and young people across Perth and Kinross who are facing impossible choices each day as disposable income becomes stretched further.”