A new service linked to seven secondary schools in North Ayrshire will help parents, carers and pupils deal with financial matters.
A dedicated welfare rights officer has been assigned to schools in the region for the first time, offering free confidential money advice to all families and pupils.
North Ayrshire Council leader Joe Cullinane insisted: “This is a fantastic new initiative and one we are proud to support."
Audrey Ritchie, from the council's Money Matters team, will be available to help...
- Complete a benefit check for households
- Confirm the benefits entitled to
- Help make a claim for benefits
- Help dispute benefit decisions and sanctions
- Provide appeal representation
- Complete a referral to a partner agency for debt, budgeting or fuel advice
“It is one of a range of measures we have introduced to help families and their children," Councillor Cullinane added.
“Many families don’t get all the financial assistance and benefits they are entitled to. They can often be intimidated or scared to ask for help or may be unaware of their entitlement.
“The rules can be complex, or sometimes they have been wrongly refused. We must do our best to help every person in that situation.”
Anyone on a low income or who has had a recent change in circumstances – for example, caring for someone, reduction in earnings, unable to work due to sickness/disability or had a baby – may be able to get some assistance, even if they haven’t claimed before or don't think they qualify.
Audrey can be contacted directly on (01294) 310498; by text on 07799 075426 or via email at moneymatters@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can request a referral is made to Audrey on your behalf by contacting the school. This service is free and strictly confidential.
Auchenharvie Academy and Ardrossan Academy are not part of the service as they already have a pilot running via a third sector organisation.
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