Thousands of residents across South and West Fife have benefited from advice, support and community initiatives aimed at tackling poverty.

A report to the South and West Fife Area Committee highlighted the impact of partnership working during 2025/26, with support ranging from welfare advice and fuel poverty assistance to food provision, children's clothing and community wellbeing activities.

Community Assistance Hubs continued to play a key role in connecting residents with support. Local organisations worked together to provide practical help and improve financial resilience.

During 2025/26 there were:

• 1,504 welfare support contacts.

• 307 referrals made to specialist support services.

• more than 22,700 Café Inc meals provided to children and young people during school holidays.

• 540 referrals for children's clothing support fulfilled through the Snug Bottoms and New4U Children's Clothing Bank initiative.

• more than 3,300 attendances at Thriving Communities activities promoting physical activity, wellbeing and social connection.

The report also identified fuel poverty as an ongoing challenge for some households.  It highlighted work undertaken with partners to provide energy advice, income maximisation support and targeted assistance for those most at risk.

Cllr Dave Dempsey, area committee convener, said: "We know many individuals and families continue to face financial pressures, so it is encouraging to see the positive impact that local organisations and partners are making through their support for residents.

"This report demonstrates the value of working together to provide practical help.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved in delivering this work and helping people across South and West Fife access the support they need."