Support available for residents worried about debt
Residents in Falkirk who are worried about debt are being encouraged to seek help as Debt Awareness Week (24-30 March) approaches.
Residents can get help in several ways. They can contact the Debt Advice team directly for support, explore the online cost‑of‑living support pages, which include the new benefits calculator to help check what financial help may be available.
In addition, as part of a wider range of community-based support, welfare advisers are now working directly with four GP practices across the Falkirk Council area.
This makes it easier for people to access help in a place they already know and trust. They can help people manage and negotiate debt, maximise their income, deal with housing or cost-of-living pressures and connect them with other local support.
Patients can be referred by their GP to a dedicated welfare adviser.
Appointments are available between 9am and 1pm at:
- Slamannan Health Centre - Mondays
- Denny Cross Medical Practice - Wednesdays
- Bo’ness Road Medical Practice - Thursdays
- Meadowbank Health Centre (Bailliefields Community Hub) - Fridays
Debt Awareness Week, organised by the charity StepChange, aims to raise awareness of the help available and encourage people to seek advice before problems worsen.
Kenny Gillespie, Head of Communities, Innovation & Housing said:
Money worries have a real impact on people’s health and wellbeing. It’s important that people know support is available locally and that they don’t need to deal with debt on their own.
“Our welfare advisers can help people manage debt, check they are receiving the support they are entitled to and connect them with other help if they need it.
"Providing this support online, by appointment and in community settings, including GP practices, makes it easier for people to access advice in a way that works for them.
Residents who are worried about debt and need advice can find out more on the Council's website.