ANTI-POVERTY campaigners, trade unions, charities and community groups are demanding Scotland’s politicians attend a national demonstration in Edinburgh to hear from people struggling with poverty, failing services and the cost-of-living crisis.

The Scotland Demands Better campaign will see communities from across the country march from the Scottish Parliament to the Meadows on October 25, where a mass rally will feature speakers from faith groups, trade unions and community organisations.

Politicians, including the First Minister, have been invited to attend in “listening mode,” but will not be giving speeches.

Social commentator Darren McGarvey will headline the event, joined by Colonel Mustard and The Dijon 5, rapper Bemz and singer-songwriter Declan Welsh.

Poverty Alliance chief executive Peter Kelly said: “Scotland’s communities are being let down.

“Too many of us are going hungry, or are without a home, or sacrificing meals for families, dreading winter due to heating costs, or struggling to get by on wages that don’t cover household costs.

“But politicians are not taking responsibility. People across Scotland are coming together to demand better.”

He said that with the Holyrood election on the horizon, it was their chance to listen and take action.