The initiative aims to highlight the growing problem of poverty in Scotland, which is increasing for the first time in two decades.

ACHA has said it is committed to providing quality, affordable housing across Argyll and Bute. Since 2017, the Association has built 59 new homes with a further 65 due for completion this year.

ACHA’s rent is also below the Scottish average for registered social landlords.

Benefits play a key role in loosening the grip of poverty. The Association’s Welfare Rights Service helps people understand and apply for benefits they’re entitled to.

Over the last two years, ACHA has boosted tenants’ income by around £1.5 million.

In Argyll and Bute, 45% of households live in fuel poverty (spending more than 10% of their income on heating), this is significantly higher than the Scottish average of 25%.

ACHA has said it is committed to addressing this and that they are delighted to receive £5.1 million from the Warm Homes Fund to invest in fuel efficiency measures.

The association said that Scottish people believe in justice and compassion, but there are around a million people in Scotland whose lives are restricted by poverty. We have a moral responsibility to work together to address poverty.

Alastair MacGregor, chief executive, Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA), said: “Poverty is a real issue for many people in Argyll and Bute. ACHA is committed, through our welfare rights service, and our investment programme in our homes to playing our part in tackling it.”

More information about Challenge Poverty Week can be found on its website.