Every week people face challenges, loss of employment, reduced hours, having children and breakups. These are just examples but they all can lead to changes in our finances. If you are facing a change in your circumstances or are just struggling with paying your bills then you’re not alone and help is at hand.
Whatever life throws at you there are organisations that can assess whether you might be entitled to some financial assistance. Everybody needs a financial health check particularly during difficult times.
Universal Credit
If you are unsure if you should claim or are having difficulties with Universal Credit contact the East Ayrshire Universal Credit Support Team.
East Ayrshire Money
East Ayrshire Money (EA Money) provide residents in East Ayrshire with information, advice and support relating to:
- welfare rights
- benefits
- energy
- affordable money services
- debts and more
Call 0800 389 7750 or email financialinclusionteam@east-ayrshire.gov.uk
If you know what organisation you need to contact, visit EA Money: East Ayrshire organisations.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice Scotland is Scotland’s largest independent advice network and is free, confidential, impartial and available to anyone.
To contact East Ayrshire Citizens Advice Bureau, telephone our message line 01563 543379 where information, advice and support can be provided on:
- benefits
- debt
- energy
- housing
- and much more
Alternatively, if you are experiencing the cost of living crisis and are experiencing difficulties with a potential loss of a utility; no access to food provision or are at threat of homelessness telephone our crisis line 01563 544744.
Social Security Scotland
Social Security Scotland can help apply for targeted benefits to help alleviate poverty such as Best Start, Crisis, Young Carer and Funeral Support.
Call 0800 182 2222 for advice.
Money Advice Scotland
Money Advice Scotland provides signposting to free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems.
Call 0800 731 4722 during office hours.
Step Change
Step Change provide free, expert debt advice, no matter how large or small your debt problem is.
Call 0800 138 1111 Monday to Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday 8am–4pm.
Citrus Energy
If you need help and support with your energy bills, contact Citrus Energy: Lemon Aid for assistance.
Call the energy advice team on 0800 221 8089 or via the Citrus Energy online contact form ensuring you have a copy of your latest gas and electricity bills.
Gambling Anonymous Scotland
Gambling Anonymous Scotland provide support on controlling gambling, dealing with debt as well as providing support to family and friends who may be affected.
Call 0370 050 8881 24 hours a day.
Home Energy Scotland
Home Energy Scotland offer free and impartial advice on energy saving, keeping warm at home, renewable energy, greener travel, water waste and more.
Call free of charge on 0808 808 2282.
Job Start Payment
If you are 16 to 24 years old and have been unemployed for six months, you can apply for a Job Start Payment. This is a one off £250 payment to help with the costs of starting a new job.
Young people can apply for the Job Start Payment up to three months after they commence employment by contacting Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222 or visit Scottish Government: Job Start Payment.
Child Poverty Action Group
Information about financial help that may be available from pregnancy to school age can be found at Child Poverty Action Group: Financial help in the early years factsheet.