Debt and managing money can be exhausting and stressful. It's never easy, but taking the first step is the hardest part. Here are seven free resources to help.
In Falkirk Council
Debt Advice
Our own Debt Advice team can give you help and advice on all types of debt including rent and mortgage arrears, council tax, personal loans, hire purchase agreements, credit cards, store cards, payday loans and catalogues.
We can help you:
- with personal budgeting support
- deal with your debts
- review the money you have coming in and going out
- understand what the people you owe money to, known as creditors, can and can't do to recover it
Advice is free, confidential and impartial and is available to anyone who lives or works in the Falkirk Council area.
Benefits Calculator – find out what you’re entitled to
Our Welfare Benefits team have a handy Benefits Calculator, which can help you find out what you’re entitled to.
Scottish Welfare Fund
The Scottish Welfare Fund helps people on a low income, and those having difficulties because of an exceptional situation, with a one-off grant. There are two types of grants available:
Crisis Grant – provides people with a safety net in the event of a disaster or emergency such as a fire or flood, or if money has been lost or stolen.
Community Care Grant – can help people leaving care to live on their own, or to stay in their own home. This grant can also help families facing exceptional pressures that are in need of essential household items, such as a cooker or washing machine.
External
Mental Health & Money Advice – mental health and finance advice
Run by Support in Mind Scotland, the Mental Health & Money Advice service in Scotland is dedicated to supporting people affected by mental health and money issues.
StepChange Debt Charity – free advice
StepChange provides free debt advice tailored to your individual circumstances and in line with Scottish debt law. They can help you by setting up debt payment plans through the Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS), as an approved organisation.
Taking into account your circumstances, they can help you work out a manageable budget and give tailored debt advice that will help you deal with debt and get back on track.
Citizens Advice Scotland (Falkirk)
Citizens Advice Scotland provides free and confidential advice and information whoever you are and whatever your problem. They can help you:
- manage your debts
- improve your financial situation
- make sure that you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to
Telephone: 01324 626070
Email: bureau@falkirkcab.casonline.org.uk