Mental Health Support and Money Advice Available
As Stirling moves into 2024, local MP Alyn Smith is urging anyone with money worries or who may be feeling low to reach out to dedicated helplines and experts, standing by to assist.
Commonly referred to as the ‘January blues’, this particular time of year can see poor mental health, financial stress and low energy as the excitement of festive celebrations fades and winter weather and Christmas debt begin to impact mental and financial wellbeing.
In December, The Money Charity reported UK Credit Card Debt averaged £2,417 per household and £1,276 per adult, by the end of October 2023.
The news comes as the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze households and businesses across the Stirling and Forth Valley area. The Office of National Statistics reported the UK economy shrank by -0.3% in October, increasing fears of an incoming economic recession.
Stirling MP Alyn Smith said:
‘If you, or someone you know, is struggling at this time of year – there’s a range of help and support out there who can lend a helping hand. Stirling and Scotland are lucky to have a range of advice services who can provide expert guidance and assistance, the details of which can be found on my website: www.alynsmith.scot
‘As your Member of Parliament for Westminster, I work extremely closely with your locally elected Councillors and Members of the Scottish Parliament on your behalf. If there is anything we can do to assist you in these tough times, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
‘Stirling has an immense community spirit, as our collective response to the pandemic demonstrated. Let’s look out for each other this winter, especially during this ongoing cost of living crisis.’
Notes:
- For those struggling with debt this winter, StepChange may be able to help.
- Social Security Scotland has a range of information on benefits and financial support you may be entitled to.
- Citizens Advice Scotland has a free ‘Money Map’ tool which can help organise your finances.
- Stirling Council offers advice and welfare services.
- NHS Forth Valley has further guidance and advice on keeping well this winter.
- Action in Mind Stirling supports people, their families and carers experiencing mental health difficulties and those living with chronic and enduring mental illness.
- Alyn Smith can be contacted via: www.alynsmith.scot/contact
- You can find out who your MSP is here.
- A full list of Stirling Councillors is here.
