AS WE EMBARK on the 2024/25 parliamentary term, it is a crucial moment for Scotland.

The beginning of a new session always brings a mixture of excitement and reflection. There is the opportunity to improve the lives of Scots throughout the country, but we must also acknowledge the considerable challenges ahead.

This year, the cost-of-living crisis continues to weigh heavily on households across the country. Rising energy bills, food prices and housing costs are putting immense pressure on families.

Our priority remains clear: we must do everything in the Parliament's limited power to mitigate the impact on families up and down Scotland. Unfortunately, this has been made tougher with the austerity measures put in place by the UK Labour Government.

I was severely disappointed to see the UK Government cut the universal Winter Fuel Payment, which directly impacted the Scottish Government's finances. Only those on pension credit will now be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. Independent Age research estimates that over 1,065 pensioners in my constituency do not claim for pension credit they are eligible for. I would strongly advise anyone who thinks they may be eligible to check the UK Government website.

Healthcare and education also remain central to our agenda. The SNP Scottish Government remain committed to funding our public services effectively. I was pleased to see the recent announcement that Scotland now has the highest number of GPs per head in the UK and that patients with cancer across Scotland will now have improved access to personalised support and care. I will continue to work with my colleagues across Parliament to ensure our healthcare and education services systems continue to improve.

If you have any specific issues you would like to raise with me, you can contact my office at colin.beattie.msp@parliament.scot, or 0131 454 0204. I also hold a monthly surgery at the Brunton Hall at 4.30-6.30pm on the first Monday of every month, by appointment only.

The road ahead is challenging, but we as a party are ready to face it with determination and optimism. Together, we can build a Scotland better for everyone.