The festive period is an expensive time, and with the rising cost of living, the local council know many East Renfrewshire residents will begin 2023 struggling, but help is available.

There is a range of support in place, so no matter your circumstances, staff and volunteers are ready to help.

The East Renfrewshire Council website has a directory of support and guidance available, providing practical steps residents can take to support themselves and their families. Visit eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support.

The Council’s Money Advice and Rights Team can offer free, expert and confidential advice to help you find out what benefits you're entitled to, assist in making a claim and maximise your income, as well as deal with all types of debts. For more information, call 0141 577 8420 or email mart@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.

Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire operate a Community Hub phone line for local people and organisations looking for support, signposting and community information. They can connect you with groups, organisations and services that can provide the support you need and tell you about activities, groups and clubs in your area, and how to get involved in your local community. It is open Monday to Friday 10-3pm and you can get in touch by calling 0141 876 9555 or emailing hello@va-er.org.uk.

Citizens Advice Bureau East Renfrewshire can also offer free, impartial and confidential advice on various issues relating to benefits, debt, money, housing and employment. You can speak to an advisor by calling 0141 881 2032, emailing bureau@eastrenfrewshirecab.casonline.org.uk or visiting their Barrhead Main Street office.

If you’re struggling with the cost of heating your home, there are Warm and Welcome spaces available across East Renfrewshire. These are free, friendly, safe spaces where you can connect with others, join in hobby activities, access support services or get information. Many offer free internet access, computers or charging points for those needing a warm and welcoming workplace space. You can find your nearest space by calling the Community Hub or visiting eastrencommunityhub.org.uk/warm-and-welcome-spaces/.

East Renfrewshire Council Leader Owen O’Donnell said: “As we start the new year, we know that the ongoing rise in living costs will continue to impact many of our residents, so we want to assure you that help and support is available. Whether you want assistance in making a benefits claim, advice in tackling rising energy costs or to find out where you nearest warm space is, the Council and our partners in the community have staff and volunteers in place, ready to offer advice, so I’d urge anyone struggling to get in touch.”