The commission, made up of independent experts brought together by Fife Council, is examining the causes of poverty in different areas of Fife and will make recommendations on how to tackle the issue.

It is focussing on issues including financial capability, welfare advice, transport links, employability skills, childcare provision, early years, educational attainment, health inequalities, housing and homelessness and addressing stigma.

Yesterday’s meeting looked at the theme of ‘life courses and transitions’.

It heard presentations from Craig Munro, Fife Council’s executive director of education, and his senior management team.

Commission chair Martyn Evans said: “We are looking at how poverty affects people at different stages in life, which factors will impact most on their life chances, and what can be done to change that.

“It is clear that there are a number of very effective programmes which are starting to see real results and make some positive changes but there is much more that can be done.

“We have been given some clear messages today on where the gaps lie in Fife and where there needs to be greater focus of attention.

“Our goal is to makes sure that the recommendations we make will have a clear impact on the lives of people in Fife, reducing poverty and inequality and improving the life chances of all.”

Fife Council leader Cllr David Ross added: “While we are proud of the steps we have already taken to reduce poverty in Fife we know that it’s a long journey. In the current economic climate and in the face of ever increasing cuts in funding and welfare it is a problem which is going to get worse. That’s why it’s really important that we re-examine what we’re doing, to make sure we are focussing on the right areas which will help us remove the blight of poverty from our society.

“I look forward to the Commission’s report at the end of the year and the recommendations they will bring forward.”