Campaigners urged to tell new story on child poverty in Scotland

Charities in Scotland have launched a practical guide for campaigners, urging them to change the way they talk about child poverty. The guide, developed by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Save the Children, suggests that the current approach, which heavily relies on alarming facts and statistics, may not be effective in driving action. The charities warn that the existing narrative could inadvertently play into the hands of far-right narratives and fail to harness public energy for meaningful change. The guide aims to provide campaigners with a new, more impactful way to communicate about child poverty, one that can counter negative stereotypes and inspire collective efforts to address this pressing issue. The launch of the guide reflects a recognition that the way child poverty is discussed can significantly impact public perception and the success of advocacy efforts. By encouraging a shift in storytelling, the charities hope to create a more constructive dialogue that can lead to tangible improvements in the lives of children affected by poverty in Scotland.