New money advice service aims to help Highlanders hit by debt as statistics show a third have struggled
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A NEW advice line offering financial advice to those in need has been launched after a third of Highlanders confessed to struggling with debt.
The free national debt advice service, moneyadvice.scot from Advice Direct Scotland, is for anyone struggling to meet current financial commitments.
It comes after an opinion poll by Survation revealed the sheer scale of people worried about paying their monthly bills over the next year.
The poll found that 32 per cent of those living in the Highlands are concerned about being able to cover ordinary living costs such as food and clothing.
The service provides free information and support on a wide range of debt-related issues and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Specialist debt advisers can work with people to assess their current situation, look at their income and outgoings, and consider what to do next.
Around half a million people across Scotland are thought not to be claiming the financial support they are entitled to, and moneyadvice.scot is designed to help those missing out.
The service also includes an online knowledge centre with helpful information.
Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: “For those concerned about their financial commitments, we’re proud to have launched moneyadvice.scot, adding free debt advice to our extensive advice service.
“It’s clear that the pandemic has had a devastating financial impact on many families in Scotland, with many reducing their outgoings and dipping into their savings.
“A significant proportion of Scots with a credit card are also struggling to pay off the minimum balance.
“But people don’t have to suffer alone, and sometimes talking things through with an adviser can help.”
