The Scottish Government

Social Inclusion Strategy
In 1999, the Scottish Executive set out its long-term strategy for tackling poverty and injustice (' Social Justice...a Scotland where everyone matters'). The Strategy acknowledged that the reasons some people suffer poverty, inequality and discrimination are complex and inter-related. Housing, health, education and employment opportunities, fear of crime and poor environment are not issues which can be successfully tackled in isolation. A co-ordinated approach is necessary if we are to tackle poverty, promote equality and close the existing opportunity gaps.

The Social Justice Annual Report (SJAR) provides details of progress towards achieving our social justice targets and milestones as set out in the Strategy document. Our third annual report was launched on 18 November 2002. For more details of the background, contents and context of SJAR, click on the above link.

Scottish Social Inclusion Network (SSIN) is an advisory body on social inclusion policy. The Network was established in 1998 and is now chaired by the Minister for Social Justice. SSIN is comprised of representatives from the voluntary and community sectors, as well as statutory organisations and key Executive departments and has a remit to advise Ministers on developing social inclusion policy. Click on the link above for details of the background to the Network, minutes of past meetings and other information.