THERE will be calls for more compassion when partners come together next week to try and break the stranglehold of poverty in the Wee County.

The Clackmannanshire Alliance, which brings together the council with emergency services and the third sector, is organising a variety of events during Challenge Poverty Week, which will run from October 7 to 11.

It will include raising awareness of the reality of poverty in the area to tackle stigmas and stereotypes.

The week will start with a conference on Monday, October 7, titled Clackmannanshire's Inclusive Growth Summit: Transforming the whole life chances of our poorest children.

Experts at the event will provide an opportunity to reflect on national policy, learning and good practice.

From Tuesday onward residents will be invited to a number of drop-in events that deal with digital inclusion, financial health checks, picking your own garden produce and more.

The week will be part of a Scotland-wide campaign designed to show poverty exists in the country and that it affects all people.

But it will also highlight how people can work to end it.

Councillor Dave Clark previously called for a similar initiative before the summer recess and council leader Cllr Ellen Forson explained the alliance was looking into it.

This week, she said: "We all want our children and families to fulfil their potential, but we know that far too many people in Clackmannanshire are caught in the grip of poverty.

"Growing up on a low income can mean going to school hungry or missing out on activities that other children enjoy, and we won't stand by and let that happen in our community.

"By working together, we can make sure our families are not held back by poverty.

"The saying 'A rising tide lifts all boats' is key, it reminds us that boosting inclusive growth in our area can help our residents benefit from new opportunities and is one of the ways they can boost their income.

"That's why it's a key part of our plans for the transformational City Region Deal.

"I'm looking forward to hearing more from all our partners at the summit and hope that local people come along to the events going on throughout the week."

For a full list of Challenge Poverty Week events around the county, visit bit.ly/2n7Txsr