SCOTTISH First Minister John Swinney announced cash for a dozen local child poverty projects today, as he marked Challenge Poverty Week.

The Child Poverty Practice Accelerator Fund (CPPAF), now in its second year, aims to support families access health services and budgeting advice, and support employees with grants of up to £80,000.

The Scottish National Party leader visited CentreStage, a performing arts charity in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, as the announcement came.

“Organisations like CentreStage demonstrate how the government is working closely with communities, local government and the third sector to help families facing challenges right now,” he said.

“My national mission to end child poverty is underpinned by the importance of this type of collaboration.

“We want to see this community-focused approach replicated across Scotland.

“Engaging people with experience of poverty as we build these services is at the heart of the government’s approach — and we are building on the strong foundations we have laid to end poverty in Scotland.

“The CPPAF will kick-start another 12 innovative projects across the country to give even more families the help and support they need.”