A NEW campaign has been launched to encourage Scots to talk to friends, family and other sources of support about money worries to raise awareness of the help available.
The COST Conversations campaign, by national advice service Advice Direct Scotland, urges people to speak to friends and family about the cost of living and rising energy bills. It said having “open and honest” conversations could lead to people being made aware of sources of support, which prevents people struggling alone.
Advice Direct Scotland offers a wide range of support services and can help those struggling with energy bills or debt problems.
The charity runs energyadvice.scot, where Scots can get free, practical information on energy matters including understanding bills, complaints and disputes, scams and changing suppliers.
Advisers can also offer guidance on the assistance available and make referrals to sources of support such as the Scottish Government’s Home Heating Support Fund.
The fund seeks to provide financial relief to energy consumers who are experiencing significant financial hardship or are rationing energy to get by.
Households can now apply through www.homeheatingadvice.scot, by choosing the “Household Application” route, provided they have received money and/or energy advice from an accredited advice agency.
Advice Direct Scotland can also make referrals to the fund on a customer’s behalf.
The charity’s moneyadvice.scot service provides free information and support on a wide range of debt-related issues.
Specialist debt and money advisers can work with people to assess their situation, look at their income and outgoings, and consider what to do next. Advice Direct Scotland spokesperson Colin Mathieson said: “Many of us who were managing previously are now finding ourselves in precarious financial situations.
“You do not need to suffer alone if you are struggling – sometimes talking things through can help us to move forward.
“Both the Scottish and UK governments have announced support schemes designed to soften the blow of devastating increases to day-to-day costs.
“Moving into the winter months, we are asking everyone to keep talking to help raise awareness about the sources of support available.”
