Yesterday’s Scottish Budget Statement contained a £70m fund to support the elderly, a £5m fund to support children and youth, and an extra £1m for climate change.

Martin Sime (pictured), chief executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, described the measures as “some small but important steps”.

Measures announced by the Scottish government’s finance secretary John Swinney included a new £70m Change Fund, which will help the NHS, local authorities and the voluntary sector to support old people in their homes.

The Scottish government has also established an early intervention fund which will give £5m to the voluntary sector to support and children and young people, while the Climate Challenge Fund, which helps voluntary and community organisations to take local action on climate change, has been increased by £1m to £10.3m

Sime said: “In a budget of cuts, some small but important steps are being taken towards a culture of prevention and reform.

“Our public services face huge challenges, but the measures announced today make it clear that the Scottish government recognises the crucial role that the sector plays in supporting the people of Scotland.”