PEOPLE in Stirling have been urged to seek advice and support amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Stirling Council and key local partners are shining a light on the supports available to struggling households and almost £2million of investment was approved in the 2022/23 budget last week to support families already feeling the squeeze.

The council is now urging those in need of financial assistance to reach out and speak to its Advice Services and Welfare Reform Team.

Trained staff provide free, independent money, debt and welfare benefits advice and have a proven track record in improving people’s finances, securing more than £23.3m in additional income for 9,332 clients across Stirling over the past five years – an average of £2,506 per person

Cllr Chris Kane, convener of Stirling Council’s Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, said: “While the council and other community partners will do all they can to mitigate the spiralling costs of living, the unfortunate reality is that more households across Stirling are going to be struggling financially in 2022.

“Our message to the people of Stirling is that we are here to support you in these challenging times. If you are worried about debt or struggling to manage your money, please get in touch and our trained advisors will be able to help you.”

Vice convener Cllr Scott Farmer added:  “Huge spikes in energy bills and a rise in National Insurance contributions will take effect from next month exacerbating an already difficult situation for many households across Stirling.

“Many people will be feeling worried or anxious about their finances and it’s important we continue to raise awareness of the wide variety of supports available to them in these challenging times.”

The team work in partnership with a number of local third sector partners, including Stirling Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), to provide advice and support to residents in a number of areas including welfare benefits and fuel poverty.

Stirling CAB offers a wide range of projects and services to assist those in need, ranging from general advice on the cost of living crisis to support to those made redundant and experiencing financial vulnerability.

Craig Anderson, CEO of Stirling CAB, said: “The economic impact of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis are hitting our communities hard. Stirling CAB is here to assist those affected and works in partnership with Stirling Council to help as many citizens as possible.”

Email moneyadvice@stirling.gov.uk or call 01786 233528 to speak to the council’s Advice Services and Welfare Reform Team.

To get in touch with Stirling CAB email bureau@stirlingcab.casonline.org.uk or call 01786 464773 any week day between 10am and 3pm.