MORE than 3,300 children in East Lothian are living in poverty.

The startling figures for 2020/21 were revealed by charity Action for Children, which feared the number could be even higher due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Many families were already facing serious financial hardship, and rising food and energy prices are making it even harder for many to get by, pushing some into poverty and destitution.

The figures translate to one in six children in each classroom of 30 school pupils.

Kenny MacAskill, East Lothian’s MP, who was alerted to the new figures by the charity, described the findings as “shameful”.

He said: “It’s hunger and cold brought about by political choices not environmental catastrophe.

“Children in Scotland shouldn’t be cold and hungry when there’s so much wealth in our land.”

Action for Children aims to protect and support children and young people, providing practical and emotional care and support.

The charity aims to ensure their voices are heard, and campaign to bring lasting improvements to their lives.

The charity noted that 12 per cent of children in East Lothian are eligible for free school meals.

At the same time, almost 3,300 foodbank parcels were distributed to youngsters throughout East Lothian by the Trussell Trust network over the 12 months in 2021/22 – the figure was just 1,075 in 201/16.

The report also found that almost a quarter of homes in East Lothian were in fuel poverty, with 23 per cent of children living in a household on Universal Credit.

Councillor Colin McGinn, cabinet spokesperson for community wellbeing, said the council was “committed” to reducing inequality and tackling poverty across the county.

He said: “While there has been a reduction in the number of children in poverty there remains work to do.

“We know that Child Payment and Best Start grants, as well as approaches including Scottish Welfare Fund payments, have helped families.

“We are continuing to work with colleagues and external partners to continue to support individuals and families across the county, particularly with the current cost of living crisis.

“We know that foodbank use has increased dramatically and we have committed funding to help a number of food initiatives.

“We also produce a regularly updated leaflet to help people cope with the increases in daily living costs and to let them know where they can get help to reduce their costs and maximise their income.

“It can be downloaded from our website.

“Anyone struggling financially, whether it’s with energy costs, access to food or difficulty in paying bills, should get in touch with East Lothian Council via the contact centre on 01620 827827 without delay as there are various ways we can help.”