Money Advice
If you are struggling to make ends meet, getting advice from a dedicated and FREE service is a really good starting point. This is often the first step energy companies and other grant programmes require before making an application.
Money advice, involves reviewing all of your circumstances, your household income, your costs and any debt and particular difficulties you may be facing, for example caring responsibilities or illness).
They support by:
Maximising income: check that you are receiving all the benefits and support payments you are entitled to.
Helping to look at budgeting
Advising how to manage debts with your budget in mind
Money Advice Services
There are a lot of online and in person money advice services. Some grant schemes will specify which one they would like you to use, so it is worth checking before you start. We’ve included some information below on common options.
Money Advice | UK Debt Help and IVA Specialists
The Money and Pensions Service | Building financial wellbeing
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Citizen’s Advice Scotland is an excellent online resource providing detailed information on a range of topics including money advice.
You can get advice from their Money Talk Team at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. You can call 0800 028 1456 to be directed to your local bureau.
You can also find more information on the Money Talk Team website.
This is often a good starting point when looking at your financial circumstances.
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Millions of people are missing out on thousands of pounds.
Turn2Us is a national charity national providing practical help to people who are struggling financially.
They have useful online tools including:
Benefits check - get an idea of what benefits you could apply for
Grant finder - uses a short questionnaire to match you to possible grants though this may not be exhaustive.