[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$f10b3rz2z388kj":3,"$f1qxoszfidbtzo":16},{"id":4,"blog_author_id":5,"blog_category_id":6,"is_featured":7,"title":8,"slug":9,"content":10,"content_overview":11,"published_at":12,"seo_title":8,"seo_description":13,"image":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15},"01m45vtvk0pdb1y7c1cqv76edp","9cdbdd6d-4900-4646-a012-d3e67a5ee788","1",false,"Panic and Promises Won't End Child Poverty","panic-and-promises-wont-end-child-poverty","\u003Cp>We live in a world that seems to spin faster every day, where all the dials are turned to 11 all the time.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The headlines crash from one calamity to another as our political leaders rush to promise emergency action while their opponents demand even more urgency. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It is noisy, tiring and a few hours later, when the news cycle spins to another red alert, the last one, whatever it was, is most often forgotten. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For years now, child poverty in Scotland has been routinely described as a national emergency demanding emergency action. It is and it does but, with more than one in five children still growing up in poverty in Scotland today, is it time to ask if the language of emergency and crisis is helping?  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps it only encourages more haste but less speed, a birling carousel of taskforces and committees, policy papers and special reports, but too little measured and impactful action? Are we even checking if the blizzard of promises and commitments is being delivered before starting the snow machine again? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What if the endless planning and process is actually slowing us down? What if somehow all the talk is delaying implementation of practical, tested, and effective measures to improve the lives and secure the life chances of the 210,000 children growing up poor in one of the wealthiest countries in the world? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because we already know what works. We have known for years.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, there are no magic bullets, no simple solutions to the complex social issues that have blighted our poorest communities for decades. Child poverty, like Scotland’s drugs crisis, another national emergency, is embedded in longstanding economic trends that have stripped far too many of our neighbourhoods of jobs and hope. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those trends will not be reversed overnight but, in the meantime, we should not let perfect be the enemy of good. As Challenge Poverty Week begins today, the biggest challenge is to see the wood not the trees, to recognise and appreciate what is already working and build on it. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There are things that we know ease the impact of poverty on young lives; that have been trialled, tested and measured; that inch their families from peril to safety; that give them new strength, confidence and a path to a more secure future. So why not have more of them? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These are services that our charity and others are delivering every day, hand in glove with our partners in social work, health care and education. These are services delivering real, measurable success, making children safer, healthier and happier today and improving their chances tomorrow. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Intensive family support, for example. The clue is in the name. It is the opposite of easy. Any family’s journey back from the very edge of crisis is one of hard yards and no shortcuts. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Our teams arrive to work, shoulder to shoulder, with families on the point of collapse, with children often on the edge of care. Ensuring those babies and young people are safe is always the priority but, after that, keeping them with their families is the driving force because that, all research suggests, is the best way to stabilise childhoods and secure futures. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Intensive family support means doing whatever it takes to keep children safe and families together. It can rebuild broken relationships; improve parents’ confidence in themselves; create new connections in communities; and help build firmer financial foundations with advice on welfare rights, maximising incomes and problem debt. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Any investment in intensive family support and other specialist services, for pregnant women and new mums, for example, is more than returned in thriving families, stronger communities and money saved. Resource is better spent on intensive support keeping families safely together, than managing their separation through a lifetime of crisis-led state intervention.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Our two Mother and Child Recovery Houses, in Falkirk and Dundee, for example, offer recovery spaces for pregnant and new mums with a history of substance use, allowing them to recover while staying safely with their babies. This helps keep families together and children at home, improves their futures and saves millions of pounds in avoided care costs. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is true child protection and the big question is not whether we can afford to roll out these services across Scotland but if we can afford not to?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Justina Murray \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Chief executive of Aberlour Children’s Charity \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>This article was written for the Daily Record and published on Monday 5th October 2026.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>",null,"2026-10-05T00:00:00.000000Z","Aberlour Children's Charity CEO, Justina Murray, explains what must be done to end child poverty in Scotland. We know what works and we've known for years. ","media\u002FRS873_0E5A9135.jpg","2026-10-05T11:05:26.000000Z",{"id":17,"blog_author_id":6,"blog_category_id":6,"is_featured":7,"title":18,"slug":19,"content":20,"content_overview":21,"published_at":22,"seo_title":23,"seo_description":11,"image":24,"created_at":25,"updated_at":26,"next":27,"prev":28},"01j6cdm3k49sz37p1qsqmyrrbb","Freedom, Equality and Justice for All: Reflecting on 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence","freedom-equality-and-justice-for-all-reflecting-on-16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence","\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">International Human Rights Day coincides with the final day of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. This year’s theme for Human Rights Day is “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All.” As we reflect on the 16 Days of Activism campaign, it’s clear how intertwined these issues are. Victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault deserve the right to freedom, equality, and safety in their communities. \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">Throughout the 16 Days, our domestic abuse services in Falkirk and Glasgow gathered with survivors and community members to spread awareness. They participated in local marches for safer streets, held lunches educating staff on the realities of domestic abuse. The team in Falkirk hosted an open day where the public could learn how to recognise warning signs and support victims. We also shared survivor stories on social media.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">Why is this campaign so crucial? One of our support workers shares: \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">“All the survivors we support are so strong, brave, and genuinely wonderful. How they manage keeping their children safe, themselves safe and continue to be willing to give so much to help keep others safe is just amazing to me.”  \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">However, she notes that until societal systems and norms that reinforce violence against women change, survivors cannot fully heal and recover. Bringing abuse out of the shadows is the only way forward.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">Another supporter on our team echoes, “Working in the Equally Safe Service brings to light the efforts still required to tackle Gender Based Violence. Women feel that they are not equal, treated differently and have less a superior place in society than men. They feel fear and dread when thinking of their daughters growing up in a society where there are not safe when out with their friends. Having to plan routes home, checking in with one another to make sure they get home ok. Making sure their drinks are not spiked, stalked, and sexually assaulted. Women and girls not only feel unsafe in the community, but they also feel unsafe within their own homes, social media plays a part in grooming, bullying and sexual cyber-harassment, no one should feel unsafe in their own homes.”\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">Survivors would simply like basic freedom – “to think for themselves without fear of recrimination…to stop looking over their shoulder…[and] not need to keep ‘second guessing’ or ‘staying one step ahead’ just to survive.”\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">As one brave survivor shares regarding her own experience: \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">“Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, it’s not always a partner either, sometimes living with parents can be just as bad as watching a toxic relationship or living in the same house as one, often starts the footprint on what you find acceptable from a partner…Learn the signs. Speak up, fight for your life.”\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">She goes on to offer many concrete tips – from using safety apps to documenting evidence of abuse to seeking out support groups and advocates. \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">Her core advice: “You don’t deserve this, you don’t need it and the abuser doesn’t deserve to get away with it.” Women have worth that far outweighs their suffering. There is hope.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan data-contrast=\"auto\">The 16 Days Campaign plays a crucial role in driving public understanding and reform for gender-based violence. By shedding light on these truths we can aspire towards a society where all are safe, valued and free. \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\"{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}\"> \u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n","\u003Cp>International Human Rights Day coincides with the final day of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. This year’s theme for Human Rights Day is “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All.” As we reflect on the 16 Days of Activism campaign, it’s clear how intertwined these issues are. Victims of domestic abuse and sexual … \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fweb-backend.aberlour.org.uk\u002Ffreedom-equality-and-justice-for-all-reflecting-on-16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence\u002F\">Continued\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fp>\n","2023-12-08T00:00:00.000000Z","Freedom, Equality and Justice for All: Reflecting on 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence - Aberlour - Web Backend","media\u002FUntitled-design.png","2024-08-28T11:58:33.000000Z","2024-11-25T07:22:19.000000Z",{"id":17,"blog_author_id":6,"blog_category_id":6,"is_featured":7,"title":18,"slug":19,"content":20,"content_overview":21,"published_at":22,"seo_title":23,"seo_description":11,"image":24,"created_at":25,"updated_at":26},{"id":29,"blog_author_id":6,"blog_category_id":6,"is_featured":7,"title":30,"slug":31,"content":32,"content_overview":33,"published_at":34,"seo_title":35,"seo_description":36,"image":37,"created_at":25,"updated_at":26},"01j6cdm3k8d4m5gy3t1vzve282","Aberlour no.23 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023","aberlour-no-23-in-the-top-100-most-inclusive-workplaces-index-2023","\u003Cp>Aberlour Children’s Charity is thrilled to have reached number 23\u003Cstrong> \u003C\u002Fstrong>in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The National Centre for Diversity’s FREDIE (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversion, Inclusion and Engagement) award honours outstanding efforts in fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace and Aberlour has been recognised.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This remarkable achievement follows Aberlour’s Investors in Diversity accreditation which was awarded in March 2023, in recognition of our promotion of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>During the year-long assessment, in the Investors in Diversity process, our staff emphasised the positive impact of Aberlour’s dedication to creating an inclusive and innovative working environment that values its employees and fosters a sense of connection and respect among colleagues. \u003Cstrong>Staff reported:\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>‘Aberlour is the best place I have ever worked in regard to feeling comfortable in speaking openly without judgement’.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Aberlour Chief Executive, SallyAnn Kelly OBE\u003C\u002Fstrong> expressed her delight in the ranking saying:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’m delighted that Aberlour has reached number 23 in the 2023 Top 100 Most Inclusive UK Workplaces. The award celebrates the remarkable achievements of everyone who has committed themselves to building inclusive cultures and I’m proud to see Aberlour ranking up there with the very best.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Ensuring that we have effective workplace approaches towards equality, diversity and inclusion is key to our team feeling valued and more able to support young people and families from many different backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to us continuing to improve and evolve our support for equality, diversion, and inclusion in Aberlour.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Aberlour we understand the value of diversity in the workplace and acknowledge the benefits it brings, not only to our staff, but also the children and families we support. This award is a testament to our commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable, respected, and valued.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Chief Executive at the National Centre for Diversity, Solat Chaudhry\u003C\u002Fstrong> said: “I send my warmest congratulations to Aberlour Children’s Charity on successfully reaching number 23\u003Cstrong> \u003C\u002Fstrong>in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023. It’s been a challenging year and yet, it has not dented the excellent work that organisations and individuals do in promoting FREDIE best practice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I am particularly proud that we celebrate excellent work across all sectors as these organisations are the future of the workplace in the UK.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We celebrate the exceptional work of people and organisations who have Equality, Diversity and Inclusion running through their DNA. Let’s rejoice at this and build a better society.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n","\u003Cp>Aberlour Children’s Charity is thrilled to have reached number 23 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023. The National Centre for Diversity’s FREDIE (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversion, Inclusion and Engagement) award honours outstanding efforts in fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace and Aberlour has been recognised. This remarkable achievement follows Aberlour’s Investors in Diversity accreditation which … \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fweb-backend.aberlour.org.uk\u002Faberlour-no-23-in-the-top-100-most-inclusive-workplaces-index-2023\u002F\">Continued\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fp>\n","2023-12-07T00:00:00.000000Z","Aberlour no.23 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023 - Aberlour - Web Backend","Aberlour Children’s Charity is thrilled to have reached number 23 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023.","media\u002FNo.23-002.png"]