You will be hearing a lot just now about how the government plans to spend its money in the coming months.
It’s called the Budget and it is announced by the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt. It’s a big deal, because it lets us know how much the government will spend on things like schools, hospitals and the environment.
But if you were in charge of the Budget – how would you like to see the money spent?
A group of pupils from St Bernard’s and St Catherine’s primary schools in Glasgow, and Carleith Primary in Clydebank, got together to talk about the big spending issues that are important to them.
The pupils, aged nine to 11, are all involved in social enterprise projects at school. They run profitable businesses to tackle a problem that they’ve identified in their communities.
People experiencing homelessness, the elderly and the cost of living are on their list of spending priorities. And they also want more sports facilities and smart solutions to help the environment. So Mr Hunt, pay attention: here is your lesson in how to Budget better!
What matters most?
Lucas says he’d love to see more money spent on shelters for stray animals. With four cats, two dogs and two tortoises at home he knows what animals need to be happy and healthy.
Paris thinks that more bins would keep streets clean and protect animals from being harmed by our rubbish.
Homelessness is a big problem for these young business people. “When I walk past a homeless person I feel bad for them, especially when the weather is bad,” says Cole. “I have enough, but not everyone does.”
Jamie says the government could build more homeless shelters, and Jack thinks there should also be more houses. Free wifi and devices could also help people find jobs, they add. Peniel has some other thoughts on how the government could help. “I would give £150-£200 to homeless people on a special card to spend on food,” she comments. Others agree that food should be cheaper for homeless people.
Janet worries about people whose homes have been damaged by winter storms. “If a house has been damaged, the government should at least help them to fix it,” she says.
Tied in with housing is the cost of living. Lee points out that rising prices mean some families can’t afford food – or the energy to heat their homes and cook.
Health matters to Emily and Rachel, who would fund sports
