WIREDGOV

Annual update of Long-term Monitoring of Health Inequalities

Commenting on health inequalities figures released yesterday, Minister for Public Health Michael Matheson said:

“Overall, health in Scotland is improving, and people are living longer, healthier lives. Reducing the health gap between people in Scotland’s most deprived and affluent communities is one of our greatest challenges.

“At the root this is an issue of income inequality - we need a shift in emphasis from dealing with the consequences to tackling the underlying causes, such as ending poverty, fair wages, supporting families and improving our physical and social environments. 

“Scottish Government measures such as driving investment in affordable housing, free school meals and continuing the social wage commitments including free prescriptions, concessionary travel and free personal care, are the right approach to take; coupled with decisive action to address alcohol consumption, reduce smoking rates, encourage active living, healthy eating, and promote positive mental health.

“In the face of the UK Government’s welfare cuts, we are working with all of our partners to tackle poverty and inequality and help those who want to work to get into work.

“Many people in Scotland are concerned about the welfare policies of the UK government and the implications they could have on them and their families. And that is why we want the necessary powers to develop a Scottish system which provides support for those who need it.”

Background:

To read the full report see: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2014/10/7902