A stark new study has linked Westminster’s austerity measures to a disturbing rise in the rates of preterm and low birthweight babies in Scotland, highlighting the impact of economic policies on the most vulnerable.
Researchers from the University of Glasgow and Public Health Scotland have found a clear connection between austerity policies introduced by the UK Government and a marked increase in adverse birth outcomes since 2010, particularly in areas of higher deprivation.
Examining data from nearly 2.3 million births in Scotland between 1981 and 2019, the study reveals a worrying trend: rates of preterm and low birthweight births surged notably in the three years following the onset of austerity measures, with low-income communities bearing the brunt.
The findings arrive amid mounting criticism from anti-poverty charities over the UK Government’s budget response, particularly concerning the widely condemned two-child benefit cap, which many groups view as a significant driver of child poverty.
Charities like Save the Children and the Child Poverty Action Group have voiced disappointment at the government’s reluctance to scrap the cap, arguing that doing so would provide immediate relief for struggling families across the UK.
In response to the study, SNP MSP Collette Stevenson expressed grave concern, calling the findings both “shocking and sadly not surprising” given the documented effects of austerity on vulnerable populations.
Stevenson criticised Labour leader Keir Starmer, urging him to prove his commitment to fighting child poverty by scrapping the benefit cap, which continues to drive thousands of children into poverty every year.
The SNP, despite having limited powers, has introduced measures such as the Scottish Child Payment to address child poverty in Scotland, while calling on Westminster to align with its vision for a fairer society.
Stevenson further noted that since Labour assumed power, over 100 children have fallen into poverty each day due to the cap, urging immediate action to reverse this trend.
With Scotland prioritising child welfare despite budgetary constraints, the study underscores an urgent need for policy change at the UK level to prevent further harm to future generations.
As pressure mounts, the debate over austerity and its social costs continues, with calls for Westminster to heed the evidence and work towards a policy approach that protects the youngest and most vulnerable in society.
