Event offers a helping hand for money worries

Residents looking for advice and support to deal with money worries have a chance to talk to some local experts at a free drop-in event taking place at Ayrshire College next week.

Organised by East Ayrshire Council’s Financial Inclusion Team, the ‘Spring Clean Your Finances’ event will run from 10am - 2pm on Tuesday 29 May and will include representation from a number of local organisations as part of East Ayrshire Money (www.eamoney.co.uk).

This is a partnership of local agencies which provide information, advice and support services on a wide range of benefits, financial and money-related issues.

As well as a helping hand with debt, rent and money problems and can also get assistance with learning new skills and finding employment.

Councillor Clare Maitland, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Equalities, Inclusion and Poverty, said:

“Most of us find ourselves stretched financially from time to time and usually things get back to normal. Occasionally though, bills can mount, rent arrears can tot up and debts can easily get on top of you.

“If debt is causing you sleepless nights or financial hardship, or if you’ve difficulty paying your rent, have mortgage arrears – the best thing to do is seek help and not worry in silence.

“We will have a range of experts on hand to offer free, impartial and confidential advice at this event next week. As soon as you know there’s a problem, let someone know - East Ayrshire Money will give you the helping hand you need.”

Alan Brown MP will be hosting a surgery at the event. He said: “The majority of my casework arises from some form of financial impact or support issues. I would urge anyone who may have concerns to come along to this event and speak to the experts."

Representatives attending include:

East Ayrshire Council Financial Inclusion Team, Atrium Homes, Kilmarnock In Court Advice, MacMillan Money Matters, Citrus Energy, East Ayrshire Citizens Advice Bureau, Money Advice Scotland, Menu for Change, East Ayrshire Advocacy Service.

Employability FIT, EA Housing Universal Credit Team, Sovereign Credit Union, East Ayrshire Works, Home Energy Scotland and EA Carers Centre.