Every Ukrainian who finds himself abroad because of the war hopes for support and help from the countries that have opened their doors to them. Scotland has become one such haven, but recent economic challenges have forced the Scottish government to take decisions that affect the most vulnerable populations, including Ukrainian refugees. They will now have to pay £3 for lunch, which used to be free. It may seem like a small change, but for people who have experienced trauma, lost their homes and livelihoods, every little thing can become a new barrier.
According to information published by The Times, Chancellor of the Exchequer Shauna Robison detailed the £188m savings plan in a letter to Holyrood’s finance committee. The main focus was on spending cuts in health and social care – £115.8 million was taken away, which hit the NHS hard. Cuts have also hit mental health services, with the budget cut by £19m, while the National Care and Social Service for adults will lose a further £13.6m.
The savings will also affect Ukrainian refugees who used to receive free meals but now have to pay £3 for them. To many, this may seem like a small thing, but in the context of the loss and uncertainty these people feel, each change is a significant blow. After all, food is not just a physiological need, it is one of the elements of a sense of security, especially in a new country.
The situation in Scotland is deteriorating due to a number of factors that Robison mentioned: inflation, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and austerity at Westminster. She explained that the government faces £800m of extra spending, with a further £460m needed to balance the budget this year.
Of particular concern is the reduction in funding for social services and charitable organizations. With many refugees in need of mental health support, the £19m cut to mental health budgets is a wake-up call. In addition, the reduction in funds for training in the field of education, optometry and Covid-19 programs shows that the government is trying to save even in key areas on which people’s quality of life depends.
The worsening economic situation will also affect students, with £6 million being cut from higher education student support, making it harder for young people to access education. In addition, the government’s marketing spend will be cut by £24m, which includes ending the peak rail fares pilot – another signal that even transport services are undergoing change.
The government’s proposed measures aim to save £933 million, but will the savings justify the losses that will be felt by refugees and other vulnerable groups? Giving up free meals to Ukrainian refugees seems like a small step, but its consequences could be serious for those already in dire straits.
Such decisions call into question the government’s willingness to continue supporting the most vulnerable during this difficult time.
