With 50 days to go until the referendum in September, 50 Yes-supporting mums have signed an open letter outlining why Scotland must back independence.

They are calling for a Yes vote to ‘create a fairer and better society’ and for fellow mums to back the full powers only offered with independence, as the best way to put an end to the ‘humanitarian crisis’ of food banks in many of Scotland’s towns and cities.

Describing a Yes vote as an opportunity mums in Scotland 'should take', founder of Mums for Change, Susan Robertson said: ‘As we move closer to the most amazing opportunity mums could take in September, Mums for Change are making it clear just how important a Yes vote in September is.

‘As mums consider which way to cast their vote, they’ll be faced with two choices for Scotland’s future. One is the continued uncertainty that will come with increased Westminster cuts, cuts that would see Scotland’s budget slashed and our valued public services seriously damaged.

‘The other path is with a Yes vote that will safeguard the gains of the Scottish Parliament such as free personal care and the ending of prescription charges. We can also protect our NHS in a written constitution, declaring that it remains free and that our welfare system remains intact to support our most vulnerable.

‘These 50 mums want to be able to tell our children that we voted for a better and fairer society and we call on all mums in Scotland to get involved with our campaign – there’s no better time.’