Whose priorities are considered when local governments allocate budgets? Mar 26: One of the first things we discuss with the Economic Empowerment Group is that budgets reflect a government’s priorities. It was therefore interesting to hear those introducing local government budgets articulate this so clearly. Phrases such as “this budget sets out what matters to the people” and “our priorities are shared priorities with the people of...” were frequently used.  

What does £7.6 million mean? Reflections on stage 1 and stage 2 of the 2026-27 Scottish Budget Bill Mar 9: Our Economic Empowerment group met last week to consider Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the Scottish Budget bill, the final legislative step in the Scottish Government’s annual budget process.  

How good was this year’s Strategic Integrated Impact Assessment? The Women’s Economic Empowerment Group share their views Feb 9: At the latest meeting of our Women’s Economic Empowerment Project, we explored how the Scottish Government considered equalities within its budget-setting process, particularly in relation to its duties under the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED).  

Does the Draft Scottish Budget Meet Women’s Needs? The Women’s Economic Empowerment Group Discuss Jan 23: The women’s economic empowerment group met after the Cabinet Secretary presented her budget to Parliament last week. The discussion focused on whether they felt their needs and the needs of women reflected in the budget decisions taken.