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SWAP’s submission says that unexpected crises are a reason for students not being successful. How can we improve crisis support for parent students? For example, would better links to money advice or the Scottish welfare fund be helpful?

Thanks for that, Kirsty.

What about other policy areas—for example, health and social care? Are reforms needed there that would help parents who are dealing with additional support needs?

Does anyone else want to come in?

Good morning. It is great to see all the witnesses. Thanks for your time.

The written submission from First 4 Kids suggests that the current system is penalising parents for choosing to work part time and have a balance between family and work. CHAS highlights the flaws in the UK carers allowance system and how we can improve on that in Scotland. I know that the committee is going to take some evidence on that in the near future.

From a social security perspective, can the witnesses highlight anything else that is a barrier? For example, previous witnesses have suggested that an increase in conditionality in universal credit is limiting choices. They have also suggested that 85 per cent of childcare costs are covered under universal credit—why not 100 per cent? How can families meet the remainder of those costs? Can you highlight any barriers?

We can.

Yes, it does. Thank you for that, Chris.

The Scottish Government’s single building assessment programme was announced in March 2021. How well has its delivery progressed? Could anything else help in this regard?

I am aware that the Scottish Government has looked at how other parts of the UK have taken forward their cladding remediation issues. Are there any issues to be considered from the approach being adopted elsewhere?

My goodness.

Thank you, and good morning. Do owners in affected buildings still find it difficult or expensive to obtain insurance? Have actions by the insurance industry had any impact on the premiums that are being paid by owners and tenants?

Thanks, Chris. That feedback is helpful. It is really important that we know about the feelings out there.