Charities bracing themselves as nearly one third of Highlanders say they may need to take on debt to cover the costs of Christmas in Ross-Shire
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Nearly one third of people in the Highlands may need to take on debt to cover the cost of Christmas this year, according to a survey carried out by Censuswide for charity The Big Give.
Nearly one quarter of residents are not looking forward to the holiday season this year, with money worries being the most common reason, the survey also found.
While lower than the national average, a shocking 13 per cent of Scottish residents are worried they may need to use food banks to help them manage this Christmas.
Thankfully, more half of respondents plan to donate the same amount to charities over the Christmas period.
Between rising financial concerns and the ongoing health crisis, the work done by local charities is more important than ever.
A campaign organised by the Big Give and backed by celebrities such as Stephen Fry, Dame Judi Dench, Russell Brand and others is aiming to help.
The Big Give Christmas Challenge, the UK’s biggest Christmas coordinated fundraising appeal, is supporting over 900 charities to raise funds with the unique offer of matching any donations made during the week of November 30 to December 7.
Alex Day, director of The Big Give said: "Our study shows that, sadly, people across Scotland and the rest of the UK are facing an imperfect storm; high fuel prices, chronic mental health problems, rising debt, loneliness and fears about Covid-19 will mean that, for many, this festive period will be a far cry from picture perfect scenes portrayed on Christmas cards.
"Some will rely on charities which will be further and further stretched as demand grows.
"That is why, for those who can, supporting charities is more important than ever.
"Through The Christmas Challenge campaign, we are offering to match any donation made to hundreds of amazing charities through h theBigGive.org.uk.. That means whatever you can give will go twice as far."
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