Towards a living income: Short-term action towards a long-term ambition

Article

In this report we set out short-term policy recommendations ahead of the next Scottish programme for government, which would provide first steps towards delivery of a minimum income guarantee, universal basic services, and fair work.

These proposals are important commitments and together present an opportunity to radically reshape the welfare state and the roles that social security, work, and collective services play in delivering greater levels of financial security.

Taking immediate steps would demonstrate willingness and show progress on the part of the Scottish government against these long-term ambitions, but most crucially it would also provide a response to the immediate crisis families face here and now.

In the coming months, IPPR Scotland will be expanding on this briefing with further reports.

Related items

  1. Union Jack flag and the Stars and Stripes flag of the USA, fluttering together in front of Big Ben in Westminster

    It's the cost of living, stupid: Why progressives lose and win

    UK households are impatient for change. Trust in our political system is low and that’s reflected in scepticism across the board that government can make things better. 

  2. Getting the child poverty strategy we need: A co-produced agenda for change

    The UK government has a time-limited opportunity to make a decisive difference to child poverty in its upcoming strategy. 

  3. Not yet settled? Assessing the government’s new policy on indefinite leave to remain

    This month’s white paper represented the most significant shake-up in immigration policy since Brexit.