CHAP News

Killie 2 Coast Returns for 2026!

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:39:08 GMT

We’re delighted to announce that CHAP’s Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk is returning on Friday 22nd May 2026 - and we’d love you to be part of it.

Following the incredible success of our inaugural event in 2025, this year’s walk promises to be even bigger and better. With support from our partners at KA Leisure, we're aiming to build on the fantastic community spirit and energy of the participants that made last year so memorable.

A Look Back at 2025

One of the highlights of 2025 was our first ever Killie 2 Coast walk, which brought together staff, trustees and supporters for an inspiring 18-mile journey from Kilmarnock to Ardrossan.

Taking place during one of the warmest days of the month, participants set off from our outreach hub at CentreStage and made their way to the coast, raising over £2,500 for CHAP’s frontline advice services.

More than just a fundraiser, the event created a real sense of togetherness as walkers shared conversations, laughter and encouragement along the way. It also became clear that many found the day to not only be a great physical challenge, but also a fantastic boost for mental wellbeing.

To everyone who took part, donated or supported the event last year - thank you. You made it something truly special!

What to Expect in 2026

This year, we’ll once again be taking on the 18-mile walk , starting from CentreStage in Kilmarnock at 9am , and making our way through Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning and Stevenston before finishing along the coast from Saltcoats to Ardrossan.

The full route takes approximately 6.5 hours , but you don’t need to complete the entire distance to get involved.

Walk Your Way

Whether you’re looking for a challenge or simply want to be part of the day, Killie 2 Coast is designed to be inclusive and flexible:

Take on the full 18-mile route if you’re up for the challenge
Or join us at one of the towns along the way and walk a section that suits you

We’ll be following the main transport routes through key locations including Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning and Stevenston, making it easy for local people to join in and be part of the journey.

Why We Walk

Every step taken helps raise vital funds for CHAP’s services, supporting people across Ayrshire who are facing housing issues, debt and financial hardship.

By taking part, you’ll be helping us continue to provide free, independent, and confidential advice to those who need it most.

Get Involved

Taking part is completely free , and we welcome individuals, families, friends and workplace teams to join us.

If you can, we encourage participants to ask friends, family and colleagues to sponsor them and support their efforts through our JustGiving campaign page.

Register to take part .

Donate or sponsor a walker .

Be Part of Something Special

Killie 2 Coast is more than just a walk - it’s a chance to come together, challenge yourself, and help CHAP make a real difference to people's lives in communities across Ayrshire.

Whether you walk a mile or all eighteen, we’d love to have you with us on May 22nd .

Please follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more details of the route and all the latest updates.

Social Security payments increase from April 2026 - what you need to know

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:28:06 GMT

People across Scotland who receive certain Social Security Scotland payments will see their payments increase from April 2026 as part of the Scottish Government’s annual up-rating process. The new rates reflect inflation and are intended to help people keep up with rising living costs.

The key message for anyone already receiving these payments is simple: you do not need to do anything.

If you already get an eligible payment, the increase should be applied automatically.

For many households, any increase will be welcome. But with the cost of essentials still placing pressure on budgets, it is more important than ever that people know what support is available and make sure they are receiving everything they are entitled to.

Which payments are increasing?

Below is a summary of some of the key updated payment rates from April 2026.

Adult Disability Payment

Adult Disability Payment helps with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition for people of working age in Scotland. It includes a daily living component and a mobility component.

New Adult Disability Payment rates for 2026/27:

Daily Living Component - Enhanced Rate: £114.60 per week

Daily Living Component - Standard Rate: £76.70 per week

Mobility Component - Enhanced Rate: £80.00 per week

Mobility Component - Standard Rate: £30.30 per week

Transitional Rate - £30.30 per week

Carer Support

Carer Support is available for people who provide regular and substantial care to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit. In Scotland, this support is replacing Carer’s Allowance and includes different components depending on individual circumstances.

New Carer Support rates for 2026/27:

Carer Support Payment component: £86.45 per week

Carer Additional Person Payment component: £10.40 per week

Scottish Carer Supplement component: £11.70 per week

The earnings limit for Carer Support will also increase to £204 per week.

This is especially important for unpaid carers who are trying to balance caring responsibilities with part-time work or other commitments.

Child Disability Payment

Child Disability Payment helps with the extra costs of caring for a disabled child or young person in Scotland. It can include both a care component and a mobility component, depending on the child’s needs.

New Child Disability Payment rates for 2026/27:

Care Component - Highest Rate: £114.60 per week

Care Component - Middle Rate: £76.70 per week

Care Component - Lowest Rate: £30.30 per week

Mobility Component - Higher Rate: £80.00 per week

Mobility Component -Lower Rate: £30.30 per week

The related Child Winter Heating Payment will also increase to £265.50.

Pension Age Disability Payment

Pension Age Disability Payment is for older people in Scotland who have a disability or long-term health condition and need help with personal care or supervision to stay safe. It has replaced Attendance Allowance in Scotland.

New Pension Age Disability Payment rates for 2026/27:

Higher Rate: £114.60 per week

Lower Rate: £76.70 per week

For people who are being transferred from Attendance Allowance, Social Security Scotland has also made clear that this process is automatic, with no need to reapply.

These increases should be made automatically from April 2026 for all eligible existing claimants. Reminder: existing claimants do not need to contact Social Security Scotland or make a new application as the new rates will be applied automatically.

For full details of the updated rates and wider financial support available, please visit the Scottish Government website .

Rising support matters - but many households are still under pressure

While any increase in support is important, we know that many households are still facing serious financial pressure.

Across Scotland and the wider UK, too many people are already trying to manage on budgets that have been stretched beyond what feels sustainable. Partly due to world events, we're all experiencing rising costs for essentials such as energy, rent, fuel, food and household bills. This accumulation of financial pressures can leave many people in a very difficult position.

We agree with the wider message being shared by many advice organisations across the country: more support is still needed for households at crisis point.

In particular, there is a strong case for:

better targeted help for people struggling most with energy bills
more action to address rising rent and housing costs
faster support for people trapped in debt or financial hardship

These are not just policy issues - they affect real people, real families and real communities every day.

CHAP is here to help

At CHAP, we know that even when support is available, it's not always easy to know what you might be entitled to, how to apply, or what to do when money is tight.

If you're struggling financially, our fully accredited team of advisers may be able to help. We can:

carry out benefit eligibility checks
help make sure you are claiming everything you are entitled to
provide support with money worries, debt, housing issues and wider financial pressures

If you are worried about your finances, you don't have to deal with it alone.

Reach out to us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 to arrange an appointment.

Outreach Services

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:32:03 GMT

We know that attending an appointment at our main office in Ardrossan isn’t always convenient or practical for everyone. To help make our services accessible as possible, CHAP offers regular outreach appointments at a number of locations across Ayrshire. This allows us to meet people closer to where they live and ensure that help and advice is available within their local communities. Below you’ll find a list of our current outreach locations and the days our advisers are available.

Please note that all appointments must be booked in advance as we're unable to offer a drop-in service. To arrange an appointment, please call Freephone 030 0002 0002 .

North Ayrshire

Dalry

Dalry Library

14 The Cross, Dalry KA24 5AW

Available on Tuesdays only

Dreghorn

Dreghorn Library

21 Main Street, Dreghorn KA11 4AQ

Available on Mondays only

Irvine

Fullarton Community Hub

1 School Lane, Irvine KA12 8DF

Available on Wednesdays only

Kilbirnie

The George Steven Community Hub

Craigton Road, Kilbirnie KA25 6LJ

Available on Thursdays only

Kilwinning

Cranberry Moss Community Centre

Cambusdoon Place, Kilwinning KA13 6SL

Available on Mondays only

Stevenston

CEIS, Stevenston Library, 1 Main Street KA20 3AB

Available on Wednesdays & Thursdays only

East Ayrshire

Cumnock

Yipworld

39 Barrhill Road, Cumnock KA18 1PG

Available on the 3rd Wednesday of each month only

Dalmellington

The Zone Initiative

10 High Main Street, Dalmellington KA6 7QN

Available on the 1st Wednesday of each month only

Kilmarnock

CentreStage Neighbourhood

15 Elmbank Drive, Kilmarnock KA1 3AE

Available on Tuesdays & Thursdays only

Newmilns

Commando Factory Gym

14 Stoneygate Road, Newmilns KA16 9AL

Available on the 4th Wednesday of each month only

Stewarton

Stewarton Community Hub

4 Rigg Street, KA3 5LE

Available on the 2nd Wednesday of each month only

South Ayrshire

Ayr (Council Tax debt advice only)

Ayr Housing Aid Centre

7 York Street KA8 8AN

Available on Wednesdays only (excluding the last week of the month)

Council Tax Increases 2026 - Could You Pay Less?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:03:40 GMT

Households across Ayrshire are facing yet another rise in council tax this year as local authorities set their budgets for 2026/27.

Recent announcements show that:

North Ayrshire Council has confirmed an 8.5% rise after reducing an originally proposed 12% increase.
East Ayrshire Council has agreed on 6.9% - the lowest increase among the Ayrshire councils so far.
South Ayrshire Council meets on Thursday, March 5 to finalise its 2026/27 budget.

These rises reflect the tough financial pressures councils are under to maintain services like bin collections, care, roads and schools - but for many families and individuals they’re yet another squeeze on already tight household budgets.

Could You Reduce Your Council Tax Bill?

A higher bill doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have to pay the full amount. In Scotland, there are a range of reductions, discounts, and exemptions that can significantly reduce what you owe - or in some cases mean you don’t need to pay at all:

1. Council Tax Reduction (CTR) for Low Income Households

If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you could get help under your council’s Council Tax Reduction scheme. The amount you get depends on your income, savings and circumstances - but many households receive substantial support.

2. Single Occupancy Discount

If you’re the only adult (18 or over) living in your home, you’re usually entitled to a 25% discount on your council tax bill.

3. Exemptions and Other Discounts

There are numerous other ways to pay less, including:

Students or student households, who may be exempt altogether.
People with a disability, through a disabled band reduction.
Care leavers, carers, under-18s, and those with severely mentally impaired status.
Empty or second homes, which may qualify for special discounts or different charges.

The rules around these vary a bit from council to council, and you usually need to claim these discounts as they aren’t always applied automatically.

How CHAP Can Help

It’s easy to miss out on help you’re entitled to, especially when rules can be confusing and councils often have differing eligibility criteria.

To help you, our advisers can:

Check whether you are eligible for any reductions, discounts, or exemptions.
Assist with filling in application forms correctly.
Advise you on how to appeal if your local council turns you down.
Help with a debt repayment plan if you have council tax arrears.

Get in touch with CHAP to arrange an appointment with one of our qualified advisers to check your eligibility and talk you through options that might apply to your circumstances.

Call Freephone 030 0002 0002

Whether you’re on a low income, living alone, a student, a carer or just unsure about your council tax bill, please get in touch. We’re here to help, and all our services are free, independent and confidential.

When Gambling Starts to Affect More Than Money

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 16:57:43 GMT

Gambling is often talked about in financial terms - wins, losses, debt, and bills. But for many people, the impact of gambling goes far beyond money.

Across Ayrshire, individuals and families can experience gambling-related harm that affects their mental wellbeing, relationships, and sense of stability. Financial pressure is frequently only one part of a much wider picture.

Gambling harm can be linked with:

Growing debt and difficulty keeping up with bills
Rent arrears or concerns about housing security
Stress, anxiety, and low mood
Sleep disruption and day-to-day functioning
Strain on family and personal relationships
In some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide

For some, these pressures can become overwhelming. Feelings of shame, secrecy, or being 'trapped' often prevent people from speaking openly or seeking support early.

Importantly, gambling harm does not have a single 'type' of person. It can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances.

Why We’re Exploring Gambling Harm in Ayrshire

As part of a short-term exploratory project, CHAP is working to better understand how gambling harm is experienced within Ayrshire communities - particularly where financial stress, housing insecurity, and mental health challenges overlap.

While national research highlights strong links between gambling difficulties, debt, and emotional distress, local insights are limited. Hearing directly from people with lived experience (including the impact on mental health and thoughts of suicide) is essential if services are to respond effectively and compassionately.

Do Any of These Feel Familiar?

Gambling-related harm can develop gradually and may not always be immediately obvious.

Some common experiences include:

Gambling more frequently or spending more than intended
Trying to recover losses by continuing to gamble
Hiding gambling from family or friends
Borrowing money or relying on credit
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or preoccupied with money
Feeling stuck, hopeless, or under significant pressure
Experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide

These experiences are more common than many people realise, but support is available.

Share Your Experience Anonymously

To help us build a clearer picture of local needs, we’re inviting people across Ayrshire who have been affected by gambling to complete a short, anonymous questionnaire.

The survey is designed to:

Better understand how gambling harm is impacting people locally
Identify gaps in support and barriers to seeking help
Inform future services and prevention work

Participation only takes a couple of minutes and is completely anonymous.

You can take part by clicking here .

Support Is Available

If gambling is affecting your finances, housing, or wellbeing - including causing distress or thoughts of self-harm - you can speak to CHAP for free, confidential, and non-judgemental advice.

We can help with issues such as:

Debt and financial difficulties
Rent arrears and housing concerns
Benefit checks and income maximisation
Budgeting and financial stability

�� Call Freephone 030 0002 0002

Specialist gambling support is also available via the GamCare National Gambling Helpline:

�� 0808 8020 133 (24/7)

�� www.gamcare.org.uk

If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

If gambling, debt, or related pressures are affecting your mental health, you are not alone. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, immediate support is available:

Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7)

NHS 24 - 111 Mental Health Hub

In an emergency, call 999

Gambling harm can affect anyone. Reaching out early can prevent issues from escalating and is a sign of strength, not failure.

Running Out of Money and Running Out of Support: Why Income Maximisation Matters for Mental Health

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:29:32 GMT

You may have seen that recent UK news coverage (including a report highlighted by The Big Issue), has once again shone a light on the strong and damaging link between mental health problems and financial hardship. New research from the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, founded and chaired by TV's 'money expert' Martin Lewis, shows that more than half of people with mental health problems regularly run out of money, often struggling to cover essential living costs.

Crucially, the research also reveals that many people who could be helped by income maximisation services - support that helps people access benefits, grants and discounts they are entitled to - are missing out entirely.

Income Maximisation: A Vital but Overlooked Lifeline

As highlighted by Helen Undy, Chief Executive of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, income maximisation services can be a critical lifeline for people facing financial difficulty. Yet many people have never heard of them, and access to these services is far from equal.

The Institute’s research, supported by Barclays, found that income maximisation services are:

Overstretched and inconsistently provided across the country
Often poorly suited to people with complex needs, including those experiencing mental health difficulties
Frequently limited to online tools, rather than personalised support

While online benefits calculators can be extremely helpful, they are not always accessible for people dealing with anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges. For many, navigating forms, understanding entitlements and following up claims requires tailored, adviser-led support - something that is simply not available in too many areas.

A Postcode Lottery of Support

Where someone lives can still determine whether they get meaningful help. The research shows that access to adviser-led income maximisation support varies widely, creating a postcode lottery that leaves many people without the assistance they need.

At a recent roundtable launch event in the UK Parliament, policy experts, commissioners and parliamentarians came together to discuss how income maximisation services could be reformed. The event also heard from Rob, an “expert by experience”, who shared how difficult it was to access appropriate support while struggling with his mental health. His testimony underlined just how important it is that services are designed to be truly accessible, compassionate and responsive.

Why This Matters for Mental Health

Financial stress and mental health problems often reinforce each other. Struggling to make ends meet can worsen anxiety and low mood, while mental health challenges can make it harder to manage money, engage with services or ask for help. Without early and accessible support, people can quickly find themselves in crisis.

That’s why the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute is calling on government, commissioners and banks to take action to ensure income maximisation support is available to everyone who needs it - regardless of mental health or location.

CHAP Can Help

At CHAP, we see these challenges every day. Many of the people who come to us for housing, welfare rights or money advice are also managing mental health difficulties that make dealing with complex systems feel overwhelming.

Our fully qualified advisers know that accessing the right benefits, grants or financial support can be life-changing - easing immediate pressure and giving people the breathing space they need to focus on their wellbeing. But as this research shows, too many people are still missing out because support is patchy, hard to access or not designed with mental health in mind.

We strongly support calls for better-funded, joined-up and adviser-led income maximisation services. By recognising the clear link between money and mental health, and by investing in accessible support, we can help prevent people from reaching crisis point and ensure no one is left to struggle alone.

Get Support

If you’re struggling with money, worried about debt, or finding it hard to cope because of financial stress, you don’t have to face it alone.

CHAP offers free, confidential and independent advice on welfare benefits, money and debt, housing issues and income maximisation. Our advisers can help you check what you’re entitled to, explore your options and find a way forward at a pace that feels right for you.

If you’re supporting someone else and are unsure where to turn, we’re here for you too.

Get in touch with CHAP today to speak to an adviser or find out more about our services.

Freephone 030 0002 0002

A Review of 2025

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:31:30 GMT

2025 has been another extremely busy year for the team at CHAP, with demand for our services continuing to rise. Over the past year, 2,055 individuals were referred to us for support, highlighting just how vital our services remain within the communities we serve.

Alongside this increased demand, the outcomes we have achieved for our clients have reached a record high. In 2025, we secured more than £4.27 million for the people we support - an increase of £1 million compared to our achievements in 2024. This vital income has made a real and lasting difference to the lives of many individuals and families.

While the financial impact is significant, the support we provide goes far beyond money alone. Many clients told us that accessing CHAP’s services helped to reduce their stress levels, with 68% reporting a noticeable improvement. Others shared how our support positively influenced their confidence, health, education and employment prospects, as well as helping them to build stronger social connections and enjoy a better overall quality of life.

Below is the breakdown of the issues our clients needed support with this year. (some clients needed help with various issues).

Housing: 1,025

Rent Arrears - 97

Homelessness - 140

Private Sector - 78

Housing Security - 75

Statutory Tenancy Rights - 70

Rent / Council Tax - 33

Repair Issues - 37

Housing Options - 295

Eviction - 80

Anti-Social Behaviour - 19

Appeals (Homeless / Housing Offer) - 101

Welfare Rights: 1,607

Benefit Applications - 493

Universal Credit - 411 (inc. housing costs)

Health / Disability Related Benefits - 423

Benefit Disputes / Appeals - 107

Benefits for Children - 26

Understanding the Impact of Work on Benefits - 147

Debt: 408

Council Tax Arrears - 72

Other Unsecured Debt - 336

Morgan Sindall Construction partners with CHAP to expand financial education into Dumfries & Galloway

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:12:43 GMT

CHAP is very pleased to announce an exciting partnership with Morgan Sindall Construction that aims to equip secondary school pupils with the financial skills needed to prepare them for life beyond the classroom and into adulthood.

Established in 2005, CHAP’s education department has long played a vital role in raising awareness of the realities of homelessness, challenging stereotypes, and highlighting the responsibilities and costs related to independent living to S4 pupils across North Ayrshire.

In 2015, this work expanded to include financial education workshops, supporting young people to better understand budgeting, credit rating, saving, and wider money management.

Thanks to funding from The Robertson Trust, another milestone was reached earlier in 2025 by extending Life Skills and financial education sessions into S1 - S3 classrooms, giving younger pupils the opportunity to develop good financial habits early and strengthen their money confidence.

Morgan Sindall Construction delivers a wide range of major construction projects across the UK including primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities. As part of the Morgan Sindall Group, they are committed to making a positive difference within the communities they work in as part of their responsible business plan.

One such project is the new Dumfries High School that is currently under construction and scheduled to open in late Spring 2026. To complement and support their investment in apprenticeships and the young workforce, Morgan Sindall Construction has funded CHAP to engage with pupils at the existing Dumfries High School, St Joseph’s College, North West Community Campus, and Dumfries Academy to deliver a comprehensive programme of financial literacy sessions.

These interactive sessions cover essential money skills including budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and the real-life cost of everyday living. Feedback from both staff and pupils has been extremely positive, with CHAP already seeing strong engagement and enthusiasm from the young people taking part.

Robin Ballantyne, Senior Education Officer at CHAP, said:

“We’re delighted to be working alongside Morgan Sindall Construction on this important initiative. Giving young people the tools and confidence to manage their money is vital, particularly as they prepare for life beyond school. This partnership allows us to reach new communities and build long-term impact while Morgan Sindall delivers transformational educational facilities across the region.”

Elizabeth Halliday, Head of Responsible Business (Scotland) at Morgan Sindall Construction said:

“Creating long-term value for communities goes hand in hand with the schools we build. Partnering with CHAP helps us strengthen our social value commitments by offering young people meaningful skills that will support them into adulthood and the workplace.”

This partnership reflects a shared ambition to improve outcomes for people living in the communities served by both parties. By working together, CHAP and Morgan Sindall Construction are laying the foundations for long-term support for young people to gain confidence in their financial and everyday life skills.

For more information about Morgan Sindall Construction, please visit: www.morgansindallconstruction.com

Left to right: Robin Ballantyne (Senior Education Officer, CHAP), Elizabeth Halliday (Head of Responsible Business (Scotland), Morgan Sindall Construction) and Debbie Alexander (Chief Executive Officer, CHAP)

CHAP Goes to Holyrood!

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:19:28 GMT

November 27th marked a proud and memorable milestone for CHAP as we celebrated our 25th anniversary with a special event at the Scottish Parliament. Our event, entitled 'Transforming Lives - resilience & equity for all', was hosted at Holyrood and provided a unique opportunity to celebrate and reflect on a quarter-century of providing free, independent advice and support to individuals and families in need across Ayrshire.

The event brought together partners, funders, MSPs, staff and trustees, creating valuable space for meaningful conversations about the ongoing challenges faced by those experiencing housing, debt and financial insecurity. Throughout the afternoon, guests took the time to speak with our team, learn more about our services and share ideas on how we can continue working together to support communities and prevent people from reaching crisis point.

The event was sponsored by Kenneth Gibson MSP, whose ongoing support for CHAP has been invaluable. Kenneth welcomed guests and helped create an open, positive atmosphere that encouraged discussion and connection, reinforcing the importance of partnership working in addressing complex social issues affecting our communities.

We were delighted to be joined by Màiri McAllan MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Housing, who kindly said a few words recognising CHAP’s achievements, professionalism and the breadth of services we provide. Her comments highlighted the importance of early intervention and acknowledged how closely our work aligns with the Scottish Government’s priorities to tackle the housing crisis, reduce poverty and improve outcomes for families across Scotland. Hearing this recognition at a national level was both encouraging and affirming for our team.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Kenneth Gibson MSP and Màiri McAllan MSP, as well as all our partners and funders who took the time to join us and celebrate this important milestone. Your engagement, support and shared commitment to help tackle inequality and financial exclusion mean a great deal to our charity.

We are also extremely grateful to the businesses who generously sponsored key elements of the event: TES-AMM (Europe) Ltd for the catering, Branding Hub Ayr for providing printed materials, and Stagecoach West Scotland for supplying a complimentary coach and driver to transport our staff and guests from Ardrossan to Edinburgh and back safely and in comfort.

The event was a privilege and a real highlight in CHAP’s 25-year history and a reminder of the strength of the partnerships that make our work possible. As we look ahead, we remain committed to growing, adapting, and continuing to support as many individuals and families as we can - and we look forward to the next exciting chapter of our journey.

A video of highlights from the event can be viewed on our YouTube channel here .

CHAP Expands Outreach Service in East Ayrshire

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:44:16 GMT

CHAP is pleased to announce that, thanks to funding from the East Ayrshire Anti-Poverty & Inequalities Fund, it has been able to establish a network of outreach services in East Ayrshire.

In addition to our current outreach based at CentreStage in Kilmarnock, we have now expanded our support service to cover the Cumnock, Dalmellington and Newmilns areas.

To ensure our services remain accessible and shaped by local residents, we ran an online consultation - with the results allowing us to identify the locations where residents are most likely to face barriers when accessing support.

We have been fortunate in partnering with local organisations who are able to provide a safe space for our advisers to meet clients in need of a helping hand with housing issues, benefit entitlements and managing debt.

The location details and dates for the expanded outreach service is provided below:

Cumnock - Yipworld, 19 Barrhill Road, Cumnock KA18 1PG
Starting from Wed 19th November, then the third Wed of each month (excl. December)

Dalmellington - The Zone Initiative, 10 Main High Street, Dalmellington KA6 7QN
Starting from Wed 3rd December, then the first Wed of each month (excl. January)

Newmilns - Commando Factory Gym, 14 Stoneygate Road, Newmilns KA16 9AL
Starting from Wed 26th November, then the fourth Wed of each month (excl. December)

All CHAP services are free, independent, and confidential.

Please note that these are not drop-in services - all appointments must be booked in advance by calling Freephone 030 0002 0002 .

CHAP Celebrates 25 Years of Making a Difference

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:56:45 GMT

This November marks a very special milestone for CHAP as we celebrate our 25th anniversary. Reaching a quarter of a century is no small achievement, and we’re incredibly proud to have supported thousands of people across Ayrshire since 2000.

Over the years, CHAP has grown from a small local advice project into a well-established and trusted charity providing free, independent and confidential advice on housing, debt, welfare rights. We’ve developed strong partnerships, expanded our services, and adapted to meet the changing needs of our communities. From helping individuals facing homelessness to delivering financial education in schools and supporting homeowners at risk of repossession through the AHAP service , our commitment has always been the same - to help people find stability, security, and confidence in difficult times.

We’ve achieved so much along the way and worked alongside national and local partners to tackle poverty and promote financial wellbeing. Each step has been driven by our belief that everyone deserves a fair chance at a better quality of life, and our commitment remains to empower individuals and families to thrive.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and compassion of our team. To our incredible staff, board of trustees, volunteers, partners, funders and donors - thank you. Your continued support, passion, and belief in our mission have contributed to making CHAP what it is today.

Of course, the landscape for third sector organisations remains uncertain. Many charities have not been as fortunate in reaching such a significant milestone. Funding is increasingly competitive, while the need for our services continues to grow as more households face financial strain and insecurity due to the current cost of living crisis and lack of affordable housing. Despite these challenges, we remain determined to continue delivering vital support to those who need it most, while working to secure our long-term sustainability.

It’s been a challenging, but always rewarding, journey. As we celebrate 25 years of helping our community, we’re also looking ahead with optimism and determination - ready to face new challenges, strengthen key partnerships, and continue making a difference for the next 25 years and beyond.

Help with keeping warm this winter

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:52:27 GMT

With the nights now drawing in and the temperature dropping, heating your home becomes an increasing worry - especially if you’re on a tight budget or have extra heating needs. At CHAP, we want to help you make the most of the support available and avoid getting into debt because of energy bills. Here’s your guide to what's available to assist you over the winter.

Support from Social Security Scotland

There are three key payments you should know about - and you may already qualify without needing to apply.

Winter Heating Payment (WHP)
This is a one-off annual payment for households who are on certain low-income benefits (such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support or Income based Jobseeker's Allowance) and might have extra heating needs over the winter months. Winter Heating Payment will be paid from December 2025 and will be £59.75.
You don’t always need to apply - if you were already on the qualifying benefits during the qualifying week (3 November to 9 November 2025) you should receive it automatically.
More information: www.mygov.scot/winter-heating-payment
Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP)
The benefit replaces the older Winter Fuel Payment and is for people of State Pension age who are in receipt of certain qualifying benefits. If you're eligible, you could get a payment of between £101.70 and £305.10.
Most eligible people get the payment automatically and do not need to apply. You’ll get a letter to confirm your payment, with letters due to be sent from November 2025.
More information: www.mygov.scot/pension-age-winter-heating-payment
Child Winter Heating Payment (CWHP)
This is a one-off yearly payment for families of disabled children or young people who receive certain disability-related benefits, to help with increased heating costs over winter. The payment amount for 2025/26 is £255.80.
You typically don’t need to apply - it’s automatic if you’re eligible.
More information: www.mygov.scot/child-winter-heating-payment

Support from Energy Suppliers

Some energy suppliers are also stepping up to help their customers reduce heating costs and keep homes warm.

OVO Energy and Octopus Energy are both offering free electric blankets to help households facing financial hardship stay warm without the high cost of heating an entire home. Electric blankets are a cost-effective way to keep warm, using just 2-4p per hour to run.

Priority is given to:

Older people
Those with mobility issues
Individuals with health conditions that make them more vulnerable to the cold

Both energy firms require customers to apply directly to be considered.

As part of the process, Octopus Energy may ask you to complete a Paylink budget form to review your household income and spending before confirming your eligibility. They’ve allocated 10,000 blankets, limited to one per household, with most applications reviewed and decided on within a week.

This is a great initiative offering some much-needed warmth and relief for those struggling with heating costs this winter.

Find out more:

octopus.energy/blog/free-electric-blankets-for-our-most-vulnerable

oes.ovoenergy.com

It helps to look after your heating system too - bleeding radiators, servicing your boiler, and covering sources of draughts will all help your home stay warmer at lower cost.

How CHAP can help

If you’re worried about your heating this winter - whether it’s how you’re going to pay the bills, whether you’re warm enough, or whether you’re eligible for all the help available - please get in touch with us. We provide free, independent, confidential advice on benefits, housing, debt and more.

We also have a selection of hats and scarves that were kindly donated by knitwear manufacturer Robert Mackie of Scotland ( www.robertmackie.com ). These are available to anyone in need - just contact us to request them.

Please stay warm and safe this winter and be assured that support is available if you're struggling.

Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002

Challenge Poverty Week: Standing Up Against Poverty Together

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:17:36 GMT

At CHAP, we see firsthand the difference that local support, guidance, and investment can make to people’s lives. These crucial services contribute to reducing levels of poverty in our communities.

Each year, The Poverty Alliance shines a light on the realities of poverty in Scotland and highlights the steps we can take to build a fairer, more just society. Running from 6th-10th October 2025, Challenge Poverty Week is an opportunity to raise awareness, share ideas, and push for much-needed change.

There are different themes for each day of Challenge Poverty Week:

Monday 6th October - Social Security

We need to ensure everyone has enough to meet their basic needs. Far too many people are still unaware of their benefit entitlements and don't claim additional financial support - which can often lead to debt. At CHAP, our advisers support individuals and families with benefits advice, eligibility checks, and form-filling to help them access the support they’re entitled to and help prevent financial crises.

Tuesday 7th October - Jobs and Employability

Work is about more than just a payslip - it’s about security, dignity, fair hours, and having a voice in the workplace. At CHAP, we lead by example and are proud to be both a Living Wage and Living Hours employer, ensuring all our staff are paid fairly and have sustainable and flexible working patterns.

We also partner with local employability services and have created an animation that follows the journey of a parent looking to re-enter employment, highlighting the ups and downs many people face along the way – and demonstrating how accessing the right support can help people overcome barriers and achieve a more secure future for themselves and their family.

You can view the video here: youtube.com

Wednesday 8th October - Better Investments in Life’s Essentials

Everyone should have access to safe housing, childcare, digital access, transport, and social care. Our advisers work to prevent problems escalating, providing help with housing, debt, and benefits so people can focus on living, learning, and working.

Thursday 9th October - Better Investments in Our Communities

Communities thrive when there are local services, opportunities, and strong support networks. CHAP works with partners across Ayrshire to provide advice, education, and guidance, from financial literacy workshops in schools to one-to-one support for those in need.

Friday 10th October - Warm Homes, Green Travel, Safe Climate

Fuel poverty and high energy bills affect far too many families. CHAP helps people manage energy debt and refer to partners for additional support with changing suppliers to reduce tariffs.

Towards the end of the month, the Scotland Demands Better march takes place in Edinburgh on Saturday 25th October. This public march is open to all and aims to highlight the need for change so that every household can access life’s essentials - from a safe, warm home and a decent income to healthcare, education, and support for those who need it most. It is an opportunity for people across Scotland to come together and raise awareness of the challenges that many face and to call for robust policies that help households thrive.

To find out more about Challenge Poverty Week please visit: Challenge Poverty Week - The Poverty Alliance

For more information on the Scotland Demands Better march please visit: SCOTLAND DEMANDS BETTER

If you, or someone you know, is facing issues with housing, benefits or debt please contact CHAP to arrange an appointment. Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat on our website.

One step forward, two steps back?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:31:04 GMT

At CHAP, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when every step towards employment seems to come with new challenges. From childcare costs to changes in benefits, it’s easy to feel like you’re taking one step forward and two steps back.

To illustrate this, we’ve created an animation which follows one parent’s journey back into employment while highlighting the barriers families can face along the way - and the local support available to help overcome them.

Watch the video below:

Although fictional, Linda's story is intended to show the very real challenges someone can face with employability, benefit entitlements, debt management and risk of homelessness. Featuring our partners at We Work For Families, the video shows how accessing the right advice at the right time can make a real difference for parents navigating benefits, work, and family life.

If you, or someone you know, is facing similar challenges or want to check what support you might be entitled to, get in touch with our team today. Together, we can help you find the best way forward for you and your family.

Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 to arrange an appointment.

We Work for Families are based at 82-84 Glasgow Street, Ardrossan and support parents in North Ayrshire with children aged 0-16 in to work, training, and education.

To contact them, please call 01294 608952 or email: wwff@thelennoxpartnership.org

Why Choosing an Accredited Advice Service Matters

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 09:53:59 GMT

When life throws challenges our way - whether it’s housing worries, debt issues, or navigating the complex benefits system - it can feel daunting knowing where to turn. That’s why it’s so important to choose an organisation you can trust. At CHAP, we’re proud to hold a range of accreditations and memberships that show our advice isn’t just free and confidential, but it's also backed by the highest professional standards.

Here are some of the key accreditations and regulatory bodies that oversee the work we do, and why they matter:

• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Regulation

Finally, CHAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means our financial advice meets robust industry standards, offering clients an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

• Scottish National Standards for Information and Advice Providers

CHAP holds Type III accreditation under these national standards - the highest level possible. This means our advice in housing, welfare rights, and money/debt is independently assessed to ensure it meets strict criteria for quality, accuracy and professionalism. For our clients, this offers reassurance that the guidance we provide is trusted and reliable.

• Approved Money Advisers

We’re approved by the Scottish Government as money advisers for the Homeowner’s Support Fund. This allows us to deliver projects like the AHAP service, helping homeowners who are struggling with their mortgage to access vital support and prevent repossession.

• Accountant in Bankruptcy Authorisation

CHAP is approved by the AIB (Accountant in Bankruptcy) to provide assistance with formal debt solutions. We can support people applying for the Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) and use the BASYS system to submit bankruptcy applications where appropriate. This ensures that clients receive correct, regulated support with serious financial decisions.

• Fair Work Commitment

As both a Living Wage and Living Hours accredited employer, CHAP demonstrates a strong commitment to fair pay and job security. We believe that treating our staff well not only benefits them, but also enhances the quality of service our community receives.

Why it matters

For over twenty years, CHAP has been trusted to deliver free, independent and confidential advice across Ayrshire. But trust isn’t just something you say - it’s something you prove. These accreditations and regulatory commitments show that we’re accountable, professional and dedicated to doing things the right way.

So, whether you’re worried about rent arrears, need help with benefits, or are struggling with debt, you can be confident that CHAP’s advisers are working to the very highest standards of care and professionalism.

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from our services, please get in touch: Freephone 030 0002 0002 .

CHAP Outreach: Support Across Ayrshire

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:44:10 GMT

We know it’s not always convenient for people to come along to our Ardrossan office, so CHAP offers an outreach service in various locations across Ayrshire. By operating in multiple local venues, we aim to ensure that people experiencing challenges with housing, welfare rights, or debt do not have to travel long distances to access help. Our outreach service is designed to reduce barriers and make free, independent and professional advice more accessible to those who need it most.

At each venue within North, East and South Ayrshire, our trained advisers are available to meet with individuals and families for one-to-one appointments. These sessions can cover a wide range of issues, from tenancy rights and homelessness prevention to benefit applications and managing personal debt.

Below is a list of CHAP’s current outreach locations:

North Ayrshire

Dalry Library - Tuesdays

Irvine - Fullarton Community Hub - Wednesdays

Irvine - Redburn Community Centre - Tuesdays

Kilbirnie - George Steven Community Hub - Thursdays

Kilwinning - Cranberry Moss Community Centre - Mondays and Thursdays

East Ayrshire

Kilmarnock - CentreStage Neighbourhood - Tuesdays & Thursdays

South Ayrshire (Council Tax Debt Only)

Ayr Housing Aid Centre - Wednesdays (excluding the last week of each month)

Girvan Library - Last Thursday of each month

Please note that appointments at these locations are available by booking only - drop-in appointments are not available. This helps us make sure everyone gets dedicated, one-to-one time with an adviser who can focus on the person's situation.

If you or someone you know could benefit from speaking to CHAP, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to arrange an appointment at the outreach location most convenient for you.

Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat feature here on our website.

Long-standing Trustee Jim McGeehan Retires from CHAP

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:46:28 GMT

After more than two decades of dedicated service, we recently said a fond farewell to one of CHAP's longest-serving Trustees who has stepped down from his role on the board.

Jim McGeehan has been a valued member of CHAP’s Board of Trustees for over 20 years, playing a crucial role in the organisation’s development. He served as Chair for many of those years, guiding the charity through significant periods of change and growth with a steady hand and unwavering commitment.

In Jim’s parting message he states: “It has been a tremendous honour and privilege to serve on the board. During this time, I have been continually inspired by the mission of CHAP, the dedication of its staff, and the impact we have had on the Ayrshire community.” On a more personal note to board members, he added: “Thank you for your support. I will miss your camaraderie and the good times we have had. It has been a blast. Thank you all!” .

Fellow trustees were quick to reflect on the contribution Jim has made over the past two decades - not just professionally, but personally. Current Chair, Ray Chaney, commented: “That phrase people often use - ‘He lights up the room’ - absolutely applies to Jim. His care for staff, his concern for fairness, and his positivity made him truly one of a kind. He’ll be sorely missed by us all at future board meetings.” Trustee Marjorie added: “It’s an understatement to say that Jim did more than his fair share over the years and it won’t be quite the same without his resolute positivity, wit and cheeky grin!”

Another long-standing trustee, Jim Munro, said: “It has been an absolute privilege serving on the board with Jim. He has been a fantastic Board Member, demonstrating wisdom, great people skills and business insight. On a personal level, I will miss his funny anecdotes - many of which will live long in my memory!” .

Alasdair, who joined the CHAP Board last year, also commented: “Jim leaves us with big shoes to fill. From everything I’ve learned, he’s been a huge influence and a great leader. CHAP feels like a family - and it’s very clear that Jim helped shape that.”

Jim McGeehan joined the board in 2003 and his commitment to CHAP has always gone hand-in-hand with his unique character and interesting life experiences - such as appearing in a Hollywood blockbuster! In a non-speaking role in the 2006 movie The Da Vinci Code , Jim shares a scene at Rosslyn Chapel alongside Hollywood actors Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou.

Referring to this now legendary CHAP anecdote, fellow Trustee Gordon says: “Not many people get to say they’ve been on a board with a film star! But Jim brought so much more. A true gentleman who always had time for, and cared for, everyone.”

Jim may have enjoyed a unique moment of on-screen fame, but his true star quality came from his values, his leadership, and his kindness. CEO Debbie Alexander sums up his contribution: “Jim believed in CHAP’s purpose from the very beginning. There’s no doubt that his expertise, encouragement, and belief in others helped get us to where we are today. We’re all incredibly thankful to Jim for his selfless dedication to the organisation and he’ll always be welcome to drop in for a cuppa and a chat if he ever gets bored!”

All the staff and Board at CHAP would like to give their heartfelt thanks to Jim for his long-standing dedication and wish him all the very best for the future.

Common Scams - How to Spot and Stay Safe

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:12:53 GMT

With scams becoming increasingly frequent and convincing, it’s more important than ever to stay alert. Fraudsters are constantly coming up with new ways to trick people into handing over money or personal details - often pretending to be someone you trust, like a bank, government agency or delivery company.

At CHAP, we’ve been hearing directly from clients who’ve been targeted by scammers - and sadly, some have been caught out. There are too many scams to list, but here are six of the most common scams around at the moment, along with tips on how to stay one step ahead.

1. DWP Winter Heating Payment Scam Texts

Scammers are sending texts that appear to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), asking older people to confirm their details or risk losing out on their Winter Heating Payment.

How to spot:

Genuine government bodies won’t ask for your personal details by text or ask you to click a link.
Look out for poor spelling or grammar, and suspicious links.
If in doubt, contact the DWP directly using a verified number or website.

2. Fake Royal Mail or Courier Delivery Texts

You receive a text or email saying there’s a parcel waiting to be delivered, but a fee must be paid first. The link takes you to a fake website that captures your card details.

How to spot:

Unexpected delivery texts, especially if you haven’t ordered anything.
Requests for small payments (e.g. £1.99) to 'release' a parcel.
Hover over or inspect links before clicking - real courier companies will never demand upfront fees like this.

3. Council Tax Refund or Rebanding Scams

Scammers pretend to be from your local council or a claims company and say you’re owed a Council Tax rebate. They then ask for your bank details or a fee to 'process' the refund.

How to spot:

Councils don’t charge a fee to check your band or issue a refund.
Never give bank details to cold callers or unsolicited emails/texts.
If you're unsure, contact your council directly using details from their official website.

4. Fake Banking Fraud Calls or Texts

You’re told there’s suspicious activity on your bank account, and you're urged to transfer your money to a 'safe account'. The caller may sound very convincing and even know some of your personal details.

How to spot:

Your bank will never ask you to move your money or share full PINs/passwords.
Don’t rely on caller ID - scammers can often spoof legitimate numbers.
Hang up and call your bank using a trusted number.

5. HMRC Tax Refund or Fine Scams

You receive a message or call claiming you’re due a tax refund or that you owe HMRC money and will face legal action if you don’t pay immediately.

How to spot:

HMRC doesn’t contact people this way and will never demand urgent payment via text or call.
Scare tactics and urgency are red flags.
Check by logging into your official HMRC online account.

6. Energy Bill Discount Scams

Fraudsters claim you’re eligible for a government grant or energy discount and ask you to fill in a form with your personal or banking information.

How to spot:

The government doesn’t ask for personal information this way.
If you’re unsure, check the official Government website for schemes and announcements.
Never click links in unexpected emails or texts claiming to be from Ofgem or your energy supplier.

Other Scams to Be Aware Of

There are many more scams out there - too many to list - but here are just a couple of others to watch out for:

Microsoft Tech Support Scam

Cold callers claim to be from Microsoft and say there’s a problem with your computer. They’ll ask you to download software so they can 'fix' it remotely, then try to charge you hundreds of pounds for fake repairs or software that doesn’t exist.

Never allow remote access to your computer unless you’ve contacted a verified support service yourself.

WhatsApp Family Scam

You receive a message that appears to be from your son, daughter, or another family member saying they’ve lost their phone and need money urgently.

Always call or speak to the person directly before sending money - don’t rely on text alone.

Where to Report

Scams

In Scotland, report all scams to Advice Direct Scotland by calling 0808 164 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or online at www.consumeradvice.scot

Fraud

If you have been the victim of fraud, report it to Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Suspicious Emails

You can forward suspicious emails to: report@phishing.gov.uk and send links from websites which you think are trying to scam the public to the National Cyber Security Centre's scam website reporting service at: www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/report-scam-website

Suspicious Text Messages

If you receive a suspicious text message you can forward it to 7726 . The free-of-charge ‘7726’ service enables your provider to investigate and take action if malicious content is found.

Protect Yourself

Take your time - scammers rely on panic and urgency.
Never click on suspicious links - always go directly to the official site.
Stay informed - follow CHAP on social media for weekly updates through our Scam Watch series.

The best defence against scams is awareness - so let’s keep each other informed and one step ahead.

If you, or anyone you know, is facing issues related to housing, benefits or debt, please call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the Live Chat feature on our website. All our services are FREE, confidential and impartial.

School’s Out - Stretching Your Summer Budget

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:57:00 GMT

Now that the summer holidays are in full swing, many families are looking forward to a well-earned break from the usual routine. But for some parents and carers, the holidays can also bring added pressure - especially for households already managing on a low income.

When school is in session, children benefit from structured days, school meals, and a range of free activities. Without that daily support, the summer months can sometimes feel long and financially draining. The added costs of food, activities, and childcare can put a real strain on already tight budgets.

At CHAP, we understand how challenging this time of year can be. That’s why we want to remind families that help is available and that nobody should feel they have to face these pressures alone.

Free and Low-Cost Family Activities

We know that keeping the kids amused during school holidays and weekends can be tough when you're on a budget - but there are plenty of free or low-cost places to visit across Ayrshire that the whole family can enjoy.

Public Parks
Explore places such as Eglinton Country Park, Kelburn Castle & Estate or Dean Castle Country Park - all have play areas, nature trails and loads of space for picnics and adventures.
Castles & Museums
Visit historically rich places including the North Ayrshire Heritage Centre, Kilwinning Abbey, Portencross Castle or The Dick Institute - all completely free and full of fascinating discoveries for curious minds.
Beaches
From Largs to Ayr, there are loads of family-friendly spots along the coast to build sandcastles, paddle, or just enjoy the fresh sea air.
Hop over to Cumbrae
A short, affordable ferry from Largs takes you to the wee island of Cumbrae - perfect for a mini-adventure! Take bikes, enjoy the beach, or walk along the promenade in Millport.

You'll often find that your local library will have a programme of activities to keep children active and engaged - without breaking the bank.

Help with Food During the Holidays

For families who rely on free school meals during term time, the summer holidays can mean added food costs that are hard to cover. Low-income families may be entitled to a payment to support them over the school holiday period. In North Ayrshire, the Council are providing free lunches to eligible children and young people of primary and secondary school age. To find out more please click here .

Local food larders and foodbanks play a vital role in supporting families who may be struggling - especially during the school holidays. Food larders usually operate on a membership or low-cost basis, allowing people to access fresh and store-cupboard items at a fraction of supermarket prices. Foodbanks, on the other hand, provide emergency food parcels to those in crisis, usually through a referral system. If you're unsure where your nearest food support is or how to access it, CHAP can help point you in the right direction.

List of Food Larders in North Ayrshire

List of Food Larders in East Ayrshire

South Ayrshire Food Banks

Benefit Checks and Budgeting Support

The summer period is also a good time to make sure you're claiming everything you’re entitled to. Many families are missing out on support such as:

Scottish Child Payment
Best Start Grants and Foods
Universal Credit
Council Tax Reduction
Discretionary Housing Payments

CHAP’s advisers can help you understand what’s available, assist with applications, and offer budgeting advice to help your money go further - not just during the holidays, but all year round.

You’re Not Alone

The school holidays should be a time to make memories and enjoy time together - not a source of financial worry. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn, please remember that CHAP is here for you. Our advice is always free, confidential and independent.

You can call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat feature on our website.

ESA to Universal Credit: The Final Countdown

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:30:16 GMT

The final phase of the move from income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) to Universal Credit (UC) is now under way. All remaining claimants still receiving old-style ESA are being contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and invited to claim UC by September 2025.

Here’s a summary of the key changes and what to watch out for:

Migration Timeline

The government has brought the deadline forward from December to September 2025 due to the pace of progress. As of March, 200,000 ESA claimants have already been moved across to UC. Around 83,000 migration notices are now being issued each month.

Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Claimants

If someone doesn’t claim UC by week 12 of receiving their migration notice, the DWP will start what’s called the ‘Enhanced Support Journey’. This includes:

Text messages and phone calls to the claimant
A possible referral to Citizens Advice or a complex case coach
Home visits where needed
An automatic four-week extension to the deadline if a home visit is arranged

This process is in place to make sure vulnerable or hard-to-reach claimants don’t miss out on support.

Special Situations

Claimants in hospital, care homes, or supported accommodation can receive home visits to help them make a claim. If someone already has an appointee, that role must be transferred to UC. Appointees will receive the migration notice directly and can complete the UC claim on the claimant’s behalf.

Transitional Protections

To honour the commitment that no one should be worse off when moving to UC, the DWP offers transitional elements for eligible claimants. This means:

If someone’s total legacy benefits are higher than their initial UC entitlement, a transitional amount is added
This amount is gradually reduced over time as UC increases (except for the childcare element)

Severe Disability Premium (SDP)

Claimants who previously received the SDP may qualify for a separate transitional SDP element, depending on their circumstances. There are three fixed rates depending on the individual or household situation, with additional amounts available in some cases, such as for enhanced disability or disabled children.

What If the Deadline Is Missed?

If a claim is made within one month (minus one day) after the deadline, it may still count as a ‘qualifying claim’. In that case, the UC award should be backdated to the original deadline date. If transitional elements are missing, advisers should request a mandatory reconsideration and appeal if necessary.

Claimants can also request deadline extensions or ask for the migration notice to be cancelled. This is at the discretion of the DWP and may be considered in cases of illness, hospitalisation, or other serious circumstances.

Changes to Permitted Work

Under ESA, permitted work could be done within strict income and hour limits without affecting entitlement. UC does not have an equivalent rule. Instead, earnings are subject to a work allowance and taper rate. The DWP has confirmed that claimants migrating to UC will not be penalised for permitted work carried out under ESA.

Need Advice?

CHAP’s advisers are here to help people navigate the migration process. We can:

Explain deadlines and what they mean
Support claimants with their UC application
Help challenge decisions and secure transitional protection
Offer ongoing advice as circumstances change

If you're unsure how these changes affect you - or someone you know - please get in touch.

Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the online chat feature here on our website.

Keeping Up... But at What Cost?

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 12:47:50 GMT

We’re constantly exposed to messages telling us to keep up - with fashion, tech gadgets, trends, and lifestyles that look perfect on social media. It’s no wonder so many people, especially parents, feel the pressure to spend beyond their means just so their kids don’t feel left out at school.

It’s so easy to fall into the trap. Store cards with 'buy now, pay later' deals, flashy introductory offers, and limited-time discounts are designed to create a sense of urgency - like if you don’t act now, you’re missing out. But what’s really being missed is usually the small print… high APR rates often leading to debt stress, and long-term financial strain.

This cycle of consumerism isn’t by accident - it’s carefully crafted to keep us buying, borrowing and feeling like we’re never quite enough unless we have the next best thing.

But here’s the truth: it’s OK to opt out .

You don’t have to compete. You don’t need to upgrade. If something still fits, still works and still does the job - just keep using it. You'll be helping yourself and the planet.

Living within your means isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s brave. It’s wise. It's not a downgrade; it’s freedom - and it’s more comfortable in the long run.

Choose peace over pressure. Your wellbeing matters more than what’s currently 'on trend'.

We can help

If you're facing debt worries and don't know where to turn, get in touch with CHAP. Our services are free and we can help you take the first steps towards a more stable financial future.

Make an appointment by calling Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the chat feature here on our website.

Incredible Support for Killie 2 Coast Fundraising Walk

Mon, 19 May 2025 13:23:04 GMT

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, CHAP staff, board members and supporters laced up their walking shoes on Friday 16th May and set off from CentreStage in Kilmarnock on an 18-mile journey to our main office in Ardrossan.

The Killie 2 Coast walk was our first long-distance fundraising event, and we’re delighted to say that it was a brilliant success! We couldn't have hoped for better weather - but, with temperatures soaring and the sun shining all day, the walk was as much a test of stamina as it was a show of solidarity. The effort paid off though - not just in steps, but in generosity. We’ve raised an incredible £2,265 so far , with donations still coming in.

The event brought together colleagues, supporters, and community members with a shared focus: raising awareness of mental wellbeing and the importance of reaching out for help when facing tough challenges.

The Killie 2 Coast walk was more than just a fundraiser - it was a celebration of community, resilience, and the collective commitment to supporting better mental health. All donations will go toward helping CHAP continue delivering free advice and support to individuals and families across Ayrshire.

A Huge Thank You

We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in the walk, supported our team, or helped behind the scenes. Your encouragement and kindness truly kept spirits high - especially during the tougher stretches of the route!

We’d also like to extend a special thanks to these fantastic local businesses who sponsored or donated to support the event:

Active Office Group
Ardeer Community Centre, Stevenston
ASDA, Ardrossan
Barry Devlin Services Ltd, Knockentiber
Brownings the Bakers
Card Factory, Saltcoats
CS Recovery Ltd
Dreghorn Library
Kilwinning Community Sports Club
Tesco Extra, Kilmarnock
The Working Wardrobe

Your generosity helped provide essential refreshments, supplies and encouragement along the way.

If you’d still like to contribute, donations will remain open until the end of May - JUSTGIVING

Thank you again to everyone who made the day so special!

Killie 2 Coast Walk - Route Details and Checkpoints

Tue, 06 May 2025 15:39:52 GMT

Following the recent announcement of our upcoming Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk on Friday 16th May, we’re excited to share more details about the big day! This scenic, 18-mile long-distance trek starts from our outreach hub at CentreStage in Kilmarnock and finishes at our main office on Princes Street in Ardrossan.

Below, you’ll find the planned route, key checkpoints with coordinates, and approximate distances and timings to help you prepare.

If you're planning to join us, please remember to wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear, as we’ll be covering a fair distance over varied terrain. Hopefully, the sun will be shining on the 16th - if it does, please remember to wear sun cream, and a hat for protection throughout the day.

Whether you're keen to take on the full challenge or join us for a particular section of the walk, there’s still time to register and get involved. We’d love for you to be part of this meaningful journey as we raise vital funds to support people across Ayrshire with housing, money advice, and welfare rights.

If you're able to make a donation for our charity, please do so here .

Many thanks to everyone who has signed up and/or donated so far - your support is very much appreciated!

Killie 2 Coast Route

The full K2C walking route is available to view here .

CHAP Office, The Michael Lynch Centre for Enterprise, Princes Street, Ardrossan KA22 8DG

Google Map Coordinates - 55.63970646085093, -4.813280512644558

What 3 Words - ///crowds.pump.tides

To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube .

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To keep up to date with the latest Killie 2 Coast news and plans, please follow us on Facebook .

Carer Support Payment: A New Chapter for Unpaid Carers in Scotland

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:26:54 GMT

Carer Support Payment has replaced Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, offering improved support to unpaid carers who play such a vital - and often invisible - role in our society.

At CHAP, we know just how much unpaid carers contribute, often putting their own needs on hold to support a family member, friend or neighbour. This new payment is designed to better reflect their circumstances and make it easier to get the support they deserve.

What is Carer Support Payment?

Carer Support Payment is a benefit issued by Social Security Scotland, offering financial support to people who provide 35 or more hours of unpaid care a week to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit - such as Adult Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance.

What’s Different?

Unlike Carer’s Allowance, the new system is designed to be:

More flexible - carers in full-time education can now apply, removing a barrier faced by many young and adult learners.
Less restrictive - there’s more support for carers navigating changes in work, health, or family life.
Better aligned with other Scottish benefits - helping to reduce overlap and confusion.

How Much Is It?

You could receive £83.30 per week (as of April 2025), paid every four weeks. This amount is not taxed, and it doesn’t count towards the benefit cap.

In addition, Carer’s Allowance Supplement is an extra payment for eligible unpaid carers who are getting Carer Support Payment. This payment is made twice a year and is unique to Scotland. Each payment of Carer’s Allowance Supplement in 2025 will be £293.50. It is paid automatically without the need to apply.

Who Can Claim It?

Many people provide regular care but don’t realise they could be entitled to financial support.

To be eligible to apply, you must:

Be aged 16 or over
Usually live in Scotland
Provide care for 35 hours or more a week (this includes if you provide care all day every day)
Not earn more than £196 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses (this threshold has been increased from £151 per week)

What If You Were Already Getting Carer’s Allowance?

If you were receiving Carer’s Allowance and you live in Scotland, you should have been automatically transferred to Carer Support Payment - you don’t need to apply again. But if you’re unsure or something doesn’t look right, CHAP can help you check and get it sorted.

How CHAP Can Help

Our friendly, professional advisers can:

Check if you're eligible
Help you apply
Go through a benefits check to make sure you're claiming what you're entitled to

All our services are free, independent and confidential.

Get in touch: Freephone 030 0002 0002

For further information: https://www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment

Killie 2 Coast Fundraising Walk - 16th May

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 13:44:00 GMT

CHAP is gearing up for an exciting challenge on Friday, 16th May 2025, as we take on the Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk. This 18-mile trek from Kilmarnock to Ardrossan marks our first long-distance walk, all in aid of raising vital funds for supporting local people facing housing, welfare, and debt challenges.

The team will set off from CHAP’s outreach office at CentreStage and make their way to the coast to finish at our main office in Princes Street. This is the first time CHAP has organised the event, and we’re eager to invite the community to get involved and show their support - either by donating or joining the walk at one of the checkpoints along the route.

The K2C walk takes place during Mental Health Awareness Week, and in addition to raising funds for CHAP’s vital services, the team hopes to raise awareness of mental health issues and help break the stigma.

Debbie Alexander, CEO of CHAP, said: "Every day, our advisers work with people facing real hardship - from housing problems and homelessness to debt and benefit issues. These challenges have a negative impact on mental wellbeing and we are encouraging people not to suffer in silence but to know that help and support is available if they reach out.”

It’s well known that walking is a fantastic way to boost mental wellbeing, so we’re encouraging the community to come together, get active, and support both a crucial cause and an important conversation.

CHAP has been a lifeline to thousands of Ayrshire residents for over 20 years by providing free, independent advice on housing, welfare rights, debt, and money management. With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and increasing demand for their services, all funds raised through the K2C walk will help us continue delivering expert advice and advocacy services to those most in need.

Debbie adds: "Every pound donated will help us continue supporting local people who are struggling. We’d love as many people as possible - including families and dogs - to join us on the journey, whether for the full route or just a mile or two. We’re also hoping this will be the first of many Killie 2 Coast walks, turning it into an annual event that brings the community together for a great cause. The CHAP team is looking forward to this exciting challenge and we hope you can join us!"

How you can support CHAP

Make a donation via JustGiving
Register to participate in the K2C Walk
Spread the word and encourage friends, family, or colleagues to donate or take part.

To keep up to date with the latest Killie 2 Coast news and plans, please follow us on Facebook .

To access CHAP services, call Freephone 030 0002 0002 .

Debt Awareness Week 2025: Breaking the Stigma Around Debt

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 14:14:58 GMT

Debt can affect anyone. Yet, for too many people, stigma and judgement prevent them from reaching out for the support they need.

As we mark Debt Awareness Week 2025 , CHAP is proud to stand with StepChange to challenge these harmful attitudes and encourage open conversations about debt. Now in its 11th year, this annual campaign raises awareness of the financial difficulties many face and highlights the solutions available.

The Reality of Debt - It’s More Common Than You May Think

A common misconception is that debt only happens to those who have mismanaged their money. In reality, financial struggles often arise from circumstances beyond a person’s control - job loss, illness, rising living costs, or unexpected emergencies.

Despite this, many still feel a deep sense of shame about their situation. Research by StepChange* found that:

78% of people feel judged for being in debt
90% experience personal shame about their financial situation
40% wouldn’t talk to family or friends about their debt
Men are more likely than women to discuss their financial struggles

This stigma leads to silence and isolation, making it harder for people to access advice and support when they need it most.

Why Breaking the Stigma Matters

Debt is not a personal failure - it’s a reality of modern life that millions of people across the UK experience. The first step towards financial stability is seeking professional help - but that step can feel impossible when shame and fear take hold.

At CHAP, we strive to break down the barriers that prevent people from getting support. Not only is our debt advice service free to access, it’s also free from judgement. Our only aim is to find a solution that allows people to move forward.

How We Can Help

If you’re struggling with debt, you don’t have to go through it alone. Speaking to an experienced debt adviser can help you:

Understand your options and the solutions available to you
Regain control of your finances with a clear plan of action
Find the right support based on your personal situation

Take the First Step Today

If you, or someone you know, is facing money and debt worries, CHAP is here to help.

Freephone: 030 0002 0002
Email: enquiries@chap.org.uk

For more information about Debt Awareness Week , visit www.stepchange.org/debt-awareness-week .

The more open, honest conversations around debt we have, the more we can work toward ending the stigma and make sure everyone gets the support they need.

#DebtAwarenessWeek #EndTheStigma #DebtHelp

*StepChange survey of 2,000 people.

Watching the Opportunity Gap in Scotland Widen

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:08:03 GMT

Poverty in Scotland isn’t just persistent - it’s growing. Despite the clear need for early intervention and financial education, funding cuts are making it harder to support those most at risk. In this thought-provoking article, CHAP Chair Ray Chaney explores the widening opportunity gap, the cost of inaction, and why we must rethink how we tackle financial insecurity.

I’m old enough to remember the SMASH adverts of the 1970s, where barely-credible, tinny robots laughed uproariously at the thought of mashing potatoes (something, of course, we still do). But it’s hard not to imagine contemporary aliens also clutching their sides at the thought that the world’s most expensive handbag recently sold for two million dollars, while we simultaneously allow people to become homeless for lack of money for earlier intervention.

In Scotland and across the UK, we have socialist-inclined governments, alongside poverty and inequality figures which continue to get worse, not better.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s report, ‘Poverty in Scotland 2024’ identifies that over one million people in Scotland continue to live in defined poverty, including a quarter of a million children.

‘Getting people back to work is the answer’, we are regularly told - and having an earned income generally helps an individual or family’s situation. But it’s very far from a single solution.

According to the government’s own statistics*, wealth is far more unevenly distributed than income, with the wealthiest 2% of the population owning 18% of Scotland’s wealth. At the same time, around a third of Scottish adults do not have sufficient savings to last a month before falling into poverty. Even greater numbers of adults have zero pension savings.

I work with people who are socially and economically excluded in one of the most deprived areas of Scotland. Through a charity focused on financial education, debt advice and homelessness prevention, we spend way too many of our resources helping people already teetering on the point of crisis.

What we really want to do is to invest resources in crisis prevention and in achieving lasting social change but, in these times of austerity (by any other name), funding is being cut in ways which make me tear my hair out in frustration.

Public sector funding for the provision of debt advice and support is being drastically cut, despite the fact this will demonstrably result in more Court and eviction costs; more health and stress issues being passed to the NHS; greater calls on emergency housing and on hard-pressed social services, as families are broken up.

These are less cost-savings than costs being kicked down the road.

Or, as the Rowntree Foundation report puts it, “A weak social safety net weakens our economy. Politicians often rightly talk of individuals locked out of the labour market by NHS waiting lists, yet ignore the impacts of the social security system on weakening people’s resilience when they need it the most. Good career advice rarely starts with recommending a period of deep financial insecurity and the anxiety that goes with it.”

Our experience, over more than twenty years, is that people on low incomes tend to have poor financial knowledge, little financial interest, and hence highly restricted access to ways to live better on a budget.

In families where living hand to mouth is the norm, paying higher prices for goods and services goes unquestioned. The thought of saving to avoid future crises seems laughable and the notion of having any real option a cruel fiction.

We have gone into secondary schools in Ayrshire for twenty years, emphasising that money (whether a little or a lot) needs to be actively managed. We discuss in lively ways why debt should be avoided and suggest strategies how this may be achieved.

Our efforts have been rewarded by becoming part of the curriculum in several schools, where we have also just been invited to devise pilot programmes for younger pupils. In addition, we offer free, financial education to adults within the community, where take-up has been greatly encouraging.

The ongoing problem is that we, like many charities, are struggling to secure ongoing funding for our work. Local Authority budgets increasingly prioritise ‘necessities’ and maintaining the status quo, which means we see the chance of meaningful social change receding further.

Early intervention and education to help young people understand the ways that money can be used and wasted, plus sharing understanding of how others thrive, can provide hope and opportunity. We actively challenge the belief that, just because something has always been this way, then this is the way it has to be.

Through necessity, we are turning our attention to finding partners in the private sector who believe, as we do, that no society sustains itself by sucking funds from the many to give to the few; only chucking money at problems at the eleventh hour, with all the attendant human and societal misery that entails.

That’s not my view of a healthy society, secure communities or potential for economic growth through meaningful change.

Ray Chaney is the Chair of CHAP, a debt, welfare and housing advice charity based in Ardrossan in Ayrshire. Providing outreach into local communities, it delivers a range of advice, support and educational services.

*The latest published government figures on wealth distribution in Scotland are from 2018-2020 (pre-pandemic) https://data.gov.scot/wealth/

For more articles like this, please connect with CHAP on LinkedIn .

Challenging Misconceptions About Homelessness

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:23:01 GMT

When most people think of homelessness, they picture someone sleeping rough on the streets. While rough sleeping is the most visible form of homelessness, it is a fairly small percentage that only represents the tip of the iceberg. Homelessness takes many forms, and the reality is far more complex than the common stereotype suggests.

Many people experiencing homelessness are hidden from view. They may be sofa-surfing with friends or family, living in temporary accommodation such as hostels or B&Bs, or staying in overcrowded, unsuitable housing. Others are at constant risk of homelessness due to financial difficulties, relationship breakdowns, or insecure tenancies.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that homelessness is a result of chaotic lifestyle choices or substance misuse. In reality, it is often caused by factors beyond an individual’s control, such as job loss, rising living costs, domestic abuse, or changes in welfare support. Anyone can find themselves homeless, and many people in this situation are working families, young people leaving care, or older individuals struggling with rent and council tax increases.

The stigma surrounding homelessness can often prevent people from seeking help. Fear of judgment or being labelled as ‘homeless’ can make it harder for individuals to access support services that could help them secure stable housing.

At CHAP, we believe that homelessness is not just about a lack of a roof - it’s about the lack of security, stability, and support. By challenging the stereotypes and understanding the true scope of homelessness and the factors involved, we can work towards solutions that offer real, long-term change.

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with housing issues, CHAP is here to help. Our free, independent advice services can provide support with tenancy matters, financial difficulties, and homelessness prevention. Let’s change the conversation and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access safe and secure housing.

Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or visit www.chap.org.uk

Could Your Family Be Missing Out on Scottish Child Payment?

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 11:55:50 GMT

Since its introduction in 2021, the Scottish Child Payment has made a significant difference to families across Scotland by helping cover the costs of raising children. Over 325,000 children and young people, aged 0 to 15, have been in receipt of the payment as of September 2024.

However, it’s estimated that many more families who would qualify for the support are not currently claiming it.

Scottish Child Payment is a weekly payment of £26.70 paid every 4 weeks to eligible people and helps towards the costs of supporting children up to the age of 16. You can apply for the payment if you:

Claim Universal Credit or other qualifying benefits
Have a child or children aged up to 16yrs

Social Security Scotland is determined to ensure all eligible families access this vital benefit and are particularly keen to raise awareness among families with older children, those living in rural areas, and parents from ethnic minority backgrounds.

How to Apply

To check eligibility and submit an application, visit www.mygov.scot/scottishchildpayment .

You can also call Social Security Scotland free of charge on 0800 182 2222 for further information.

If you're unsure of eligibility or need some assistance with the application, CHAP advisers are able to help.

Call our office on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat feature on our website to arrange an appointment in North or East Ayrshire.

If you think your family might qualify, please don’t wait - take action today and make sure you're receiving the financial support you're entitled to.

Millions Facing Christmas Debt

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:02:19 GMT

Now that credit card bills and loan repayment invoices are arriving after the festive season, millions of people are bracing for the financial realities of Christmas spending. Recent research from lender Creditspring reveals a worrying trend - with over 9 million individuals entering 2025 with significant debt due to the rising costs of the festivities.

Young People Hit Hardest

The research highlights that young people, particularly those aged 18-34, are the most affected:

25% of young adults had reported that their Christmas spending would push them into debt - significantly higher than the UK average of 17%.
39% of 18-34 year olds said they had relied on their savings to cover festive expenses, compared to the UK average of 32%.
29% said they needed to borrow money from friends or family - more than double the national average of 14%.
The study also found that 27% of young people couldn’t afford to buy presents at Christmas, over twice the UK average of 13%, while 21% of all UK adults were worried they wouldn’t be able to afford festive gifts or activities.

The harsh reality is that many are now left grappling with the burden of credit card and loan repayments - a situation that we often see reflected in the numbers of people engaging with CHAP services at this time of year.

You’re Not Alone: CHAP Can Help

For those facing financial challenges, it’s important to remember there’s support available. High levels of debt, if left unmanaged, can quickly spiral out of control, but help is just a phone call away.

At CHAP, our dedicated Money Advice Team can assist you with managing debt and regaining control of your finances. Our services are free, independent, and confidential, ensuring that you get the support you need to plan for a more financially stable year ahead.

If you live in North or East Ayrshire, please don’t struggle alone - get in touch today:

Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat feature on our website .

Together, we can help you take the first step towards a brighter financial future.

Source: Financial News

A Review of 2024

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:44:13 GMT

2024 has been another record year for the team here at CHAP, in terms of the demand for our services - evidenced by the 2,059 individuals who have been referred to us. The results we have achieved for our clients this year have also reached a record high, totalling just over £3.29 million .

Putting this money into the pockets of our clients not only helps to improve the persons’ financial situation, but the overall support we provide helps in so many other ways. The majority of our clients said that our services helped to reduce their stress ( 72% ), whilst various clients also said that our services had a positive impact on their confidence, health, education, employment, improving their social circle and activities, and with their general overall quality of life.

Below is the breakdown of the issues our clients needed support with this year. (some clients needed help with various issues).

Housing: 465

Rent Arrears - 22

Private Let Issues - 40

Homelessness (inc. homeless appeals and evictions) - 54

General Housing Options - 84

Housing Applications - 99

Housing Offer Appeals - 63

Court Representation - 59

Disrepairs - 34

Mortgage / Secured Loans - 10

Welfare Rights: 1,061

General Benefit Advice/Income Maximisation/Applications - 964

ESA Disputes/Appeals – 1

UC Disputes/Appeals – 41

Housing Benefit/DHP Disputes – 4

Adult Disability Payment Disputes/Appeals – 50

DLA Disputes – 1

Debt: 277

Council Tax Arrears - 79

Other Unsecured Debts - 198

We are Hiring - Information and Advice Worker

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 10:58:20 GMT

CHAP is looking for a person who wants to really make a difference.

Post: Information and Advice Worker

CHAP, a charitable organisation based in Ayrshire, is looking for an Information and Advice Worker to join our successful team who, in 2023, secured £2.9 million in financial gains for our clients. But we want to do better!

Thanks to support from the National Lottery Community Fund, we are looking to increase capacity by adding another Information and Advice Worker to the team. This is a role where the successful candidate can really make a difference in supporting the most vulnerable people in our community.

CHAP provides independent advice and information on housing, welfare rights, and debt issues, completely free of charge, to people in crisis across Ayrshire. We exist to provide hope and to stand alongside our clients as they deal with some of life’s most difficult challenges. We give those who need our help a voice.

The successful candidate will support the delivery of our advice services and will ideally have extensive knowledge in the areas of welfare rights, housing, and money advice as well as experience of representing and negotiating on behalf of clients; however, full training will be provided. Applicants should have experience of working with individuals in an empowering capacity across all elements of their lives to achieve long-term positive outcomes.

A driving licence and access to your own transport is essential.

If you think you have the enthusiasm, skills and experience required and would like to join this successful team, please telephone 030 0002 0002 to find out more or send your CV with a cover letter explaining why you think you are suitable for this position to enquiries@chap.org.uk .

Alternatively, you can download an application form , complete it and email to enquiries@chap.org.uk .

You can also download our recruitment privacy policy .

Information and Advice Worker

Job Description

Person Specification

This post is subject to appropriate references and a PVG scheme record disclosure.

Closing date for applications is 5:00pm on Friday 24th January 2025, with interviews taking place on Friday 31st January 2025.

CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and therefore actively encourages applications from all sections the community. We would be particularly interested in applicants who may have “lived experience”.

CHAP Service Launches in East Ayrshire

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:51:37 GMT

CHAP is very excited to announce that it will be delivering an outreach service for residents of East Ayrshire.

Starting in early January, CHAP will offer a range of services from its base within the CentreStage building in Kilmarnock town centre. Advisers will be available to support individuals and families facing challenges relating to housing, welfare rights, and debt issues. This initiative marks a significant step in CHAP’s expansion to ensure its vital services are accessible to more people across Ayrshire.

This partnership with CentreStage aligns with CHAP’s holistic approach to problem-solving, working alongside local organisations to improve the standard of living for communities.

CEO of CHAP, Debbie Alexander, said:

"Thanks to funding support from the Garfield Weston Foundation, we are able to bring our services to East Ayrshire. This funding makes a significant difference in ensuring that individuals and families can access the help they need, when and where they need it most. CentreStage is the perfect partner for this initiative, offering a warm and inclusive environment for everyone."

CHAP’s outreach programme will provide East Ayrshire residents with free, expert assistance in key areas, including:

Housing Advice : Help with tenancy matters, eviction prevention, and support for those at risk of homelessness.
Welfare Rights : Guidance on benefit entitlements, eligibility checks, support with completing complex forms and representation at benefit tribunals.
M oney Advice : Assistance with debt and money issues.

Having operated in North Ayrshire for 25 years, CHAP is grateful for the support from the Garfield Weston Foundation and the opportunity to serve communities in East Ayrshire from such a well-loved venue.

To access CHAP services, call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature on our website.

CHAP Celebrate Funding Award from National Lottery

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:03:51 GMT

CHAP is pleased to announce a funding boost from the National Lottery’s ‘Improving Lives’ programme. Spread over three years, the funding totalling £114,400 will support individuals facing complex challenges with housing, debt and welfare rights.

Our CEO, Debbie Alexander, said, “We are very grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund and proud to begin this exciting partnership with them. CHAP is committed to using this funding to deliver more flexible and tailored support to individuals and families in need. Together, we aim to create lasting, positive change for communities across Ayrshire.”

We'd like to thank National Lottery players for making this possible - your support truly changes lives!

To find out more about the National Lottery Community Fund, please visit: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/

Contact Us

Call our Freephone number on 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature on our website.

Debt isn’t a nice thing to get for Christmas

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:56:46 GMT

Sadly, by mid-December, that sinking feeling that January is going to a be a long, cold month is already baked-in, especially if it’s going to involve credit or store cards arriving which are more bloated than granny after a third helping of pud.

The sheer pressure of not disappointing kids or family members whose expectations exceed the budget is hugely magnified at this time of year. Many people are already seeking sand in which to bury their heads - which, frankly, is neither festive nor wise.

At the risk of sounding like Santa’s little helpers;

Are you guilty of trying to ‘keep up with the Jones’s’. Peer pressure, on kids especially, can be horrendous - but you already know that fads quickly fade. Maybe choose not to shell out on more plastic tat that will be forgotten or broken by January. Instead, deflect by actively ‘bigging up’ how your Christmas is better, by adding nature walks or games, or family karaoke. Genuinely, those are the things that will be remembered.
If money is tight, maybe you can give time? Gift a promise to take the kids swimming once a week; offer to weed a flower bed, give driving lessons, or promise to grow some flower seeds later in the spring to brighten up an outdoor tub. It often feels better to DO something, than to buy something and, if money is tight, that’s a win/win.
Fight the urge that; ‘I’ve already overspent, I might as well buy more and sort it out in the New Year.’ You already know that felt pretty grim by January / February last year. This year, get more creative about how you spend your cash. Maybe make up a photo book for all the family to enjoy, discuss and keep over time? Memories are priceless.
Don’t waste money on the stuff you don’t need but feel you HAVE to have at this time of year. Make new traditions. If everyone hates turkey and sprouts, what’s actually wrong with having baked beans? Just research how much Christmas pud is bought every year, compared with the number of folk who say they actually like it?
And if it’s already too late for this year then promise yourself, you’ll actively manage debt in January, rather than letting it accumulate extortionate interest. You’ve got a whole year to put yourself back in charge and make good decisions before it all rolls around again next year.

CHAP offers free, impartial help and advice on challenges relating to debt, welfare and housing rights.

We have been working hard across Ayrshire for more than two decades and are currently seeking partnerships with banks, financial institutions and many others to extend our community education; to help break the damaging cycle of poverty and lack of essential life skills.

Ray Chaney. Chair of CHAP.

Have Your Say on North Ayrshire Council’s Budget Plans for 2025/26

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:11:00 GMT

North Ayrshire Council is calling on residents to share their views on vital budget plans for the upcoming financial year. With a funding gap of approximately £16 million projected for 2025/26, its apparent that tough decisions will need to be made. Over the past eight years, the Council has had to remove £84 million from its budget, and each year the challenge grows.

To ensure that YOUR voice is heard, the Council has created an accessible way for North Ayrshire residents to provide feedback on the services that matter most to you and your local community. This can be done by taking an online survey here:

https://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/Budget2025

Paper copies are also available in libraries and leisure facilities across North Ayrshire.

Why Public Feedback is Essential

Every decision made in the budgeting process impacts local services - from housing and welfare to education and community support. By contributing your opinions, you play a part in shaping how resources are allocated and ensuring the services you value receive the attention they deserve.

At CHAP, we understand the ripple effects of budget cuts on individuals and families. Reduced funding can strain vital services, increasing the challenges faced by those already struggling with housing issues, debt, and welfare concerns. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone in North Ayrshire to take part in this consultation. Your input can help highlight the areas where support is needed most, ensuring decisions reflect the priorities of the people who rely on these services.

How CHAP Can Help

If you or someone you know is affected by housing, welfare, or financial difficulties, CHAP is here to offer free, independent, and confidential advice. Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature on our website.

While the Council works to navigate these financial challenges, we remain committed to supporting individuals and families in our community.

Celebrating Living Wage Week 2024

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:46:36 GMT

Why CHAP Supports the Real Living Wage and Real Living Hours

This week (4-10 November) marks Living Wage Week in the UK, a nationwide celebration of the real Living Wage and Living Hours movement. As an accredited Living Wage and Real Living Hours employer, CHAP is proud to support fair pay and secure work arrangements for our team. This commitment reflects our belief that everyone deserves a decent standard of living from the work they do. By ensuring that each of our employees is paid fairly and has dependable work hours, we’re directly contributing to a healthier, more resilient community in North Ayrshire.

The Real Living Wage is calculated based on the actual cost of living, covering essentials like housing, utilities, food, and more. In a time when many households face financial challenges, paying a real Living Wage makes a genuine difference, giving people the freedom to focus on their families, careers, and well-being without the stress of financial insecurity.

For employers, adopting the Real Living Wage and Real Living Hours has significant benefits too. Offering fair pay and reliable hours builds loyalty and fosters a positive workplace culture where staff feel valued and respected. It also strengthens local communities, as better-paid employees can support local businesses and invest in their future. We’ve seen first-hand how being a Living Wage employer helps us attract skilled, dedicated people who share our commitment to social impact.

We encourage other employers to consider joining the Living Wage movement. By investing in your employees’ financial security and well-being, you’re investing in the growth and success of your organisation - and the community as a whole.

If you’d like to show your support, you could use your own social media channels to spread the word about the #LivingWageWeek campaign and by liking and sharing our messages throughout the week. Our Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram links can be found at the bottom of the page.

To find out more about the campaign or becoming a real Living Wage employer, please visit the Living Wage Foundation website: www.livingwage.org.uk

Contact Us

Call our Freephone number on 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature on our website.

Introducing the ‘Advice Saves’ Campaign by AdviceUK

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:59:30 GMT

We’re excited to announce the launch of the first-ever Advice Saves campaign being run by AdviceUK - a network we’re proud to be a member of. This campaign runs from Monday 21st - Friday 25th October and aims to highlight the real difference that free, independent advice services make in people's lives, and how timely advice can save individuals and families not only their money or their home but also their mental wellbeing.

What is the Advice Saves Campaign?

AdviceUK has launched Advice Saves to raise awareness about the vital role that accessible advice services like ours play in helping people navigate difficult financial situations. The campaign aims to show how access to expert advice at the right time can prevent problems from spiralling, whether that’s avoiding homelessness, managing debt, or ensuring families receive the benefits they’re entitled to.

We’re committed to this campaign because we see the impact that professional advice can have every day. Our advisers at CHAP work with clients who are struggling with debt, housing issues, and welfare rights, offering free, confidential, and independent advice to improve lives across North Ayrshire.

Why Does Advice Matter?

In times of crisis, timely advice can stop problems from escalating. For example, receiving the right guidance on benefits can ensure families don’t miss out on financial support they’re entitled to, which can make the difference between paying the rent or falling into arrears. Similarly, for people at risk of losing their homes, expert advice can help find solutions that prevent homelessness and keep families together.

But it’s not just about money. Advice and support can reduce the stress and anxiety that often comes with financial uncertainty, helping people regain control and build their resilience for the future.

However, the findings of research by AdviceUK reveals that independent advice services across the UK are at breaking point – with a staggering 90% of advice centre staff report an increase in demand over the last year; yet more than half (55%) report they are not confident they can meet demand.

Liz Bayram, CEO of AdviceUK said:

“Our survey results reveal a sector under immense pressure – we have overstretched, dedicated staff working tirelessly to offer a lifeline to people in crisis, but a lack of sustainable funding means they are at a breaking point.

“Our Advice Saves campaign aims to shine a spotlight on the life-saving work independent advice organisations do across the country and call for long-term funding and resource solutions to ensure that they can continue to support those most in need in our society.”

“A robust and secure funding model is essential to ensure these vital services can continue to support vulnerable people across the UK. Through the Advice Saves campaign we urge policymakers and funders to recognise the long-term nature of these issues and invest in the future of advice services so they can keep their doors open to those who need them most.”

What Can You Do?

Spread the word about our services. If you, or someone you know, needs help with debt, housing, or welfare rights, CHAP is here for you. The Advice Saves campaign serves as a reminder that reaching out early for support can save time, money, and stress down the line.

As members of AdviceUK, we are committed to making sure everyone in our community has access to the support they need - without judgment, and without stigma.

You could help by using your own social media channels to spread the word about the #AdviceSaves campaign and by liking and sharing our messages throughout the week. Our Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram links can be found at the bottom of the page.

To find out more about the campaign please visit the Advice UK website where you can also download some template social media assets. Please visit: www.adviceuk.org.uk

Contact Us

Call our Freephone number on 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature on our website.

Please get in touch today and remember - Advice Saves!

We are Hiring - Education Officer

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:52:08 GMT

VACANCY: Education Officer

BACKGROUND

CHAP is an Ayrshire based charity, offering advice and support with debt, welfare rights, and housing. We are committed to early intervention and prevention, and as such, have developed a comprehensive education programme which we are currently expanding.

JOB SPEC

As an Education Officer, you will be responsible for delivering engaging and interactive workshops on homelessness prevention and financial education within schools, colleges, and various community groups.

These sessions are tailored to meet the diverse needs of young people from various educational and socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring that the content is both accessible and impactful.

You will work closely with the Senior Education Officer to continuously enhance the quality of these workshops, using student feedback and your own insights to adapt and refine the materials and approach.

In addition to workshop delivery, you will play a key role in developing educational materials such as lesson plans, handouts, and multimedia content. This involves keeping resources up to date, ensuring alignment with organisational standards, and staying attuned to innovative teaching practices.

You will also support the broader development of educational programmes, assisting in designing new initiatives and contributing to the evaluation of their effectiveness through reports and administrative tasks. Your input will help shape the future direction of these essential educational efforts.

PERSON SPEC

Essential Criteria:

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
IT proficiency, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Ability to present information in an engaging manner to diverse audiences
Strong analytical skills
Ability to work effectively both independently and with a team environment
Valid driving licence and access to your own vehicle

Desirable Criteria:

Experience of working with at-risk individuals, particularly those at risk of homelessness
Strong understanding of homelessness prevention and financial education
Experience in creating and developing educational materials
Understanding of different learning styles and educational needs
Ability to adapt educational content as appropriate

Personal Attributes

Motivated, enthusiastic, and passionate about education and social issues
Empathetic, patient, and able to engage with young people from all backgrounds
Creative and innovative, with a problem-solving mindset

If you think you have the enthusiasm, skills and experience required and would like to join this successful team, please telephone 030 0002 0002 to find out more or send your CV with a cover letter explaining why you think you are suitable for this position to enquiries@chap.org.uk .

Alternatively, you can download an application form , complete it and email to enquiries@chap.org.uk .

You can also download our recruitment privacy policy .

This post is subject to appropriate references and a PVG scheme record disclosure.

Closing date for applications is noon on Friday 8th November, with interviews taking place on Tuesday 19th November 2024 in Ardrossan.

CHAP is an equal opportunities employer.

Challenge Poverty Week 2024: Standing Up Against Poverty Together

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:08:48 GMT

Today marks the start of Challenge Poverty Week 2024! Launched by the Poverty Alliance in 2013, this is a week where we stand with organisations across Scotland to shine a spotlight on poverty and the solutions needed to tackle it. At CHAP, we’re committed to supporting our community by working tirelessly to ensure that everyone can access the help they need to improve their standard of living.

Challenge Poverty Week is a crucial opportunity for us to come together and speak out against the injustice of poverty. Poverty is not inevitable; with the right support, information, and collective action, we can make a meaningful difference.

This week is about raising our voices to say that we all deserve to live a life of dignity, opportunity, and security.

One of the most important ways we help our community is by ensuring that everyone is getting the income they are entitled to. From assisting with benefit applications to providing guidance on managing finances and debt, CHAP’s welfare rights and money advice services are here to help people maximise their income and make sense of what can be a complex benefits system.

We know that many people are struggling right now, whether it’s due to the rising cost of living, insecure work, or other challenges. That’s why our team is dedicated to helping individuals and families ensure they are claiming every benefit available to them, as well as providing the tools and advice to build better financial resilience. It’s about more than money though - it’s about providing a positive pathway to a stable, more secure future.

Throughout this Challenge Poverty Week, we’ll be sharing stories and updates on our social media channels to highlight how our free services, alongside our community partners, are making a difference. From supporting parents and young people to offering practical advice and workshops, our work is driven by the belief that poverty can be solved with the right commitment and support.

Together, let’s challenge poverty and work towards a fairer society for all.

If you need help with benefits, housing, or managing your money, please get in touch with our team - we’re here for you.

Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the LiveChat feature here on our website.

To find our more about Challenge Poverty Week, please visit: Challenge Poverty Week - The Poverty Alliance

To follow us on social media, please click on any of the links shown at the bottom of the page.

Annual Performance Update: September 2023 - August 2024

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:44:49 GMT

As we finalise the latest update for our Board Report, we would like to share some key achievements from the past year. These results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and will be of particular interest to our stakeholders.

Financial Gains: Over the past 12 months, CHAP achieved financial gains of £3,065,435 for our clients - an impressive 17% increase from the previous year. This significant accomplishment highlights the effectiveness of our services and the ongoing commitment of our staff.
Client Satisfaction: We are proud to report a 98% client satisfaction rate . Following client feedback, we introduced ‘excellent’ as a rating option, and since its introduction, 85% of clients in August 2024 rated our service as ‘excellent.’ This underscores the consistent quality of the support we provide.
Positive Client Outcomes: Our services have made a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients - with 75% of clients reporting reduced stress levels over the last year.
I ncreased Referrals: The organisation received 2,422 referrals over the past year, marking a 37% increase from the previous 12 months. This reflects both the growing demand for our services and our continued relevance in addressing key issues faced by individuals in the community.
Increased Website Engagement: Thanks to the efforts of our team, we have seen a marked increase in website traffic. In August 2024, our website recorded 1,300 visits , a substantial increase compared to 632 visits in August 2023.

While the past year has presented challenges, it has also highlighted the resilience and dedication of our staff, who remain committed to delivering high-quality, impactful services. These results demonstrate the significant and positive difference our organisation continues to make in the lives of those we support.

Thank you to our entire team, management and Board members for your continued hard work and commitment to excellence. These achievements would not have been possible without your dedication.

If you, or anyone you know, is facing issues related to housing, benefits or debt, please call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the Live Chat feature on our website. All our services are FREE, confidential and impartial.

CHAP secures funding from the Robertson Trust!

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:01:05 GMT

We are delighted to announce that CHAP has successfully secured 3 years of funding from the Robertson Trust. This incredible support will allow us to expand on our collaboration with North Ayrshire Council to deliver financial education workshops in secondary schools. This funding boost will enable us to develop additional training programmes and pilot new initiatives aimed at creating positive pathways for young people across North Ayrshire.

With this funding, CHAP will:

Expand our current involvement in mainstream education , providing more frequent and in-depth input to engage pupils and build on their skills over time.
Increase active participation from students by offering regular exposure to important topics such as financial literacy. This approach will help ensure that learning is retained and effectively embedded, leading to sustained, long-term benefits.
Extend our activities to younger pupils , allowing us to build a strong foundation and positively shape mindsets during key transitional moments in their lives.
Work closely with schools to engage non-attenders , offering tailored interventions in alternative learning environments to address barriers and encourage re-engagement with education.

This funding enables us to pilot a two-pronged approach to develop and grow our educational programmes, empowering young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the future. Thanks to the Robertson Trust, we look forward to making an even greater impact on young lives together.

Introducing the new Carer Support Payment benefit

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 14:49:15 GMT

Introduced on August 19th, Carer Support Payment is now available to residents in South, East, and North Ayrshire.

Carer Support Payment (CSP) is a new benefit designed to provide financial support to carers across Scotland. If you're caring for someone with a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition, this benefit could make a real difference in your life.

What is Carer Support Payment?

The Carer Support Payment is a new benefit replacing Carer’s Allowance and is administered by Social Security Scotland. It’s intended to recognise the vital role carers play in our communities and provide them with the financial support they need to allow them to focus more on their caregiving role.

Note: If you’re already receiving Carer’s Allowance, you will be transitioned to the new Carer Support Payment automatically, so there’s no need to reapply.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

You may be eligible for the Carer Support Payment if you meet the following criteria:

You care for someone for at least 35 hours a week: The care you provide must be substantial and regular, and it must be for someone receiving certain disability benefits, such as Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Personal Independence
Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance.
You do not earn more than £151 a week: This is your take-home pay, after tax, National Insurance, and expenses. The income limit ensures that the benefit is targeted at those who most need financial support.
You’re not in full-time education: If you’re in full-time education or receiving a student loan or grant, you won’t be eligible for CSP. However, you may be eligible if you study any course and spend less than 21 hours a week in class or doing coursework.
You’re at least 16 years old: The benefit is only available to adult carers who meet the other eligibility criteria.

How Much Will You Receive?

If you qualify, you’ll receive £81.90 per week, or £327.60 every four weeks, for providing at least 35 hours of care to a family member, friend, or neighbour.

How To Apply?

Applications can be made online at: https://www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment

How CHAP Can Help

At CHAP, we understand that navigating benefits and financial support can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. Our advisers can assist you with the application process, provide advice on eligibility, and help ensure that you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to.

If you’re a carer and would like more information or need help applying for the Carer Support Payment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our services are free, confidential, and designed to make your life a little bit easier.

Call 030 0002 0002 or use the Live Chat feature on our website.

CHAP shortlisted for the ‘Charity of the Year’ Award 2024

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:41:43 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that CHAP has been shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Charity of the Year’ award at the 2024 Ayrshire Business Awards! This recognition is a testament to the dedicated hard work of our staff, our Board and management team and the continued support of our donors, funders and community partners.

Over the past year, we have continued to make significant strides in our mission to help restore hope and self-determination for our clients facing housing, welfare rights or debt issues.

Being shortlisted for this award is not just an honour for us, but a celebration of everyone who has been part of our journey. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support and belief in our cause.

As we await the final results, we remain committed to our mission of delivering a better standard of living for our communities and we look forward to achieving even greater milestones together. Thank you for being an integral part of our success story.

CHAP secure funding to continue support for New Scots families

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:28:56 GMT

Following another successful year of providing an outreach service at the New Scots hub, CHAP is very pleased to announce that it has secured funding to run this project for another year.

Working in partnership with North Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development team, an adviser will attend the New Scots’ hub, located at Whitehirst Park Community Centre in Kilwinning, once a month to provide an outreach service.

CHAP advisers will ensure New Scots families have access to free, independent information and advice relating to their rights when it comes to housing, benefits, and debt/money issues.

The assistance provided by CHAP has been praised by North Ayrshire Council and welcomed by the whole group who continue to engage with the service and seek support with the issues they are facing.

Helping families to settle into a new community, culture, and getting to understand the various systems and supports that are in place is very important.

The ethos at CHAP is to ensure that no one is disadvantaged by a lack of knowledge or understanding relating to their rights - and this is particularly vital for any New Scots who reside in North Ayrshire.

As always, if you or someone you know lives in North Ayrshire and requires assistance with benefits, housing, or debt, please get in touch. Call us on 030 0002 0002 , access our live chat or email adviceandinfo@chap.org.uk .

Scottish Housing Minister Outlines Plans to Enhance Housing Support for Domestic Abuse Survivors

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:02:19 GMT

The Housing (Scotland) Bill proposes expanding the definition of domestic abuse and mandates social landlords to meet pre-action requirements prior to eviction proceedings.

Housing Minister Paul McLennan has detailed the Scottish Government's initiatives to improve housing support for domestic abuse survivors.

Before an evidence session with the Social Justice and Social Security Committee on June 27 ^th , 2024, Mr. McLennan provided further details to Committee Convener Collette Stevenson about the Bill's provisions related to domestic abuse.

Key points include:

Revising the definition of domestic abuse in homelessness legislation to encompass a broader range of abusive behaviors, ensuring comprehensive support for those at risk of homelessness.
Imposing a new duty on social landlords to create and publish a domestic abuse policy that addresses gender-based violence, aligns with Equally Safe principles, and promotes equality and human rights.
Establishing a statutory pre-action requirement for social landlords to thoroughly consider domestic abuse situations before initiating legal actions to reclaim properties.

In summary:

Scottish Housing Minister Paul McLennan has outlined the government's plans to enhance housing support for domestic abuse survivors through the Housing (Scotland) Bill. The bill includes expanding the definition of domestic abuse, requiring social landlords to develop policies on gender-based violence, and mandating pre-action requirements before eviction proceedings. These measures aim to ensure comprehensive support and consideration for those affected by domestic abuse.

At CHAP, our advisors offer free, independent and confidential advice to people in North Ayrshire struggling with a range of housing issues or homelessness. If you need to speak to someone about a housing matter which is impacting your life, please call our office using freephone number: 030 0002 0002 or talk to an advisor using our live chat service available here on our website.

We also provide free, confidential support on a range of debt and benefit issues.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, contact North Ayrshire Women’s Aid: 01294 602424 (Select option 2).

Outwith office hours you can call the 24hr national helpline: 0800 027 1234 or v isit their website .

Reminder: Vote in the UK Election on July 4th, 2024

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 12:27:53 GMT

As the UK election day approaches, we are urging people to exercise their democratic right and vote on July 4th, 2024. This election will determine the future direction of the nation, making it crucial for everyone eligible to participate.

Polling Stations and Voting Times

Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm. Ensure you know the location of your designated polling station. You can find this information on your polling card, or you can complete a postcode check here .

What to Bring

To cast your vote, you must bring a valid form of identification. Check if you have accepted photo ID, which must be the original document; you cannot use a photograph, image on a phone or a photocopy of your ID. A list of what ID is accepted can be found here .

Full details on the election and how to vote can be found at the government’s official Election website .

Why Your Vote Matters

Every vote counts! Your participation helps shape the policies and leadership that will impact the UK for years to come. Whether it’s healthcare, education, or the economy your voice plays a vital role in the democratic process.

Stay Informed

Not sure how to vote? Stay informed about the candidates and their policies. Ensure you access the official information available in their manifestos to ensure you are making an informed decision.

Inspiring Community Contribution by Largs Academy Pupils!

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:29:40 GMT

We're thrilled to share the heartwarming story of Largs Academy's S2 pupils, who recently excelled in their schools Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). Their victory led to a £3,000 donation to CHAP, along with care packages for those in need in the local community. Their efforts exemplify compassion, community spirit, and the power of youth in making a tangible difference. A huge well done!

Read more about their incredible journey here .

Keeping the Kids Entertained on a Budget this Summer

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:38:05 GMT

As summer approaches, parents across Ayrshire are gearing up to keep their children entertained without breaking the bank. With the cost of living still rising, finding affordable activities is more important than ever. Luckily Ayrshire offers a variety of budget-friendly options that promise fun and adventure for the whole family. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a memorable summer on a budget.

Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails

Ayrshire boasts stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor activities. Local parks like Eglinton Country Park in Kilwinning and Kay Park in Kilmarnock offer ample space for picnics, games, and exploring. Many parks have playgrounds and trails suitable for all ages, providing hours of free entertainment.

Beach Days at Ayrshire’s Coast

With beautiful beaches such as Troon, Ayr, and Saltcoats, a day at the seaside can be both fun and economical. Pack a picnic, bring some beach toys, and enjoy the sand and sea! Many beaches also have free parking and nearby facilities, as well as great public transport links, making them convenient for family outings.

Local Libraries and Community Centres

With the unpredictable Scottish weather, we always need to be prepared for rain. Libraries across Ayrshire, including those in Irvine and Ardrossan, often have free or low-cost summer activities for children. From story-telling sessions to craft workshops, libraries provide educational and entertaining options. Community centres also offer a range of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and group games.

Visit Museums and Historical Sites

Many museums and historical sites in Ayrshire offer free admission or discounted family rates. The Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway provide educational experiences that are both fun and enriching. Check their websites for any upcoming family events or activity days.

Scottish Maritime Museum

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Gardening Projects

Introduce kids to gardening by planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs. Gardening can be a rewarding activity that teaches children about nature and responsibility. Community gardens and allotments often welcome families and can be a great way to meet other local residents.

Bicycle Adventures

Cycling is a great way to explore Ayrshire. Many towns have safe cycling paths and scenic routes. Plan a day out cycling to a nearby town or park, pack a picnic, and enjoy the adventure. It’s an excellent way to keep kids physically active while exploring the local area. Route 7 of the National Cycle Network cuts right through North Ayrshire incorporating Kilbirnie, Kilwinning, Ardrossan, Irvine, and Troon. North Ayrshire Council have provided a handy map and guide here .

Arts and Crafts Workshops

Engage children’s creativity with art and craft workshops. Many local art studios and community centres offer sessions at reasonable prices. Alternatively, set up a crafting corner at home with supplies like paper, paints, and recycled materials for endless creative possibilities.

Keeping kids entertained on a budget this summer in Ayrshire is entirely possible with a little planning and creativity. From exploring the great outdoors to participating in local events, there are plenty of ways to make the summer of 2024 both fun and affordable. Embrace the season and make lasting memories without straining your wallet.

If you are a North Ayrshire resident and need assistance with issues relating to benefits, housing, or debt, please contact CHAP on 030 0002 0002 or via our live chat . Our services are free, confidential, and are available at various outreach locations throughout North Ayrshire.

🚨 COMMUNITY DROP-IN SERVICES: Here to Help You🚨

Mon, 20 May 2024 09:30:14 GMT

As part of our ongoing commitment to making our services as accessible as possible, we will be carrying out drop-in events throughout Irvine next week. These services are designed to provide support, resources, and a friendly face to those who may be facing issues with their benefits, housing, or debt.

Why We’re Here:

Accessibility: We know that not everyone can schedule appointments in advance. Our drop-in services ensure that you can get the help you need without the hassle of booking ahead.
Community Engagement: We believe in building strong, supportive communities. By offering drop-in services, we aim to be a consistent and reliable presence in these neighbourhoods.
Tailored Assistance: Each visit is unique. Our advisers are here to listen to your specific concerns and provide personalised support.

Key Information

Please see information flyer below for all dates, times, and locations.

For more information please feel free to contact us at 030 0002 0002 or email us at enquiries@chap.org.uk . You can also access our live chat services on our website .

In Work Poverty on the Rise in Scotland: Strain on Individuals and Families

Tue, 07 May 2024 08:07:30 GMT

In recent years, Scotland has witnessed a troubling trend: the increase of in-work poverty. Despite being employed, many individuals and families across the country are struggling to make ends meet due to low wages, precarious employment, and rising living costs. This rise in working poverty not only affects individuals’ financial wellbeing but also has far-reaching implications for families and communities.

The events of the past few years – Covid-19, cost-of-living crisis, energy crisis – have created a perfect storm, meaning that the number of working households living in poverty in Scotland has been steadily rising. This is usually caused by several interconnected factors, including the prevalence of low-paying jobs, insufficient working hours, and the lack of affordable housing.

For individuals and families experiencing in-work poverty, the daily struggle to cover basic needs can take a significant toll on their wellbeing. Many are forced to make difficult decisions, choosing between paying for essentials such as food, rent, utilities, and other priorities. This financial strain can lead to stress, anxiety, and poor mental health.

In-work poverty can also have detrimental effects on children within affected households. Growing up in poverty can limit children’s access to educational opportunities, nutritious food, and adequate healthcare, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and inequality.

At CHAP, our aim is to ensure that people are not disadvantaged by a lack of knowledge regarding their rights. Many individuals who are in employment, and for various reasons, are struggling to make ends meet, don’t realise that they may still be entitled to some benefits or reductions which could help to maximise their income or reduce their outgoings.

Our friendly, knowledgeable advisers can help; we can complete a benefit calculation on your behalf which highlights what you might be entitled to. Depending on the outcome, we can assist you in applying for relevant benefits. Additionally, we offer support in disputing decisions; our advisers can even provide representation at appeals where required.

CHAP can provide assistance with various issues relating to benefits, housing, and debt; our services are open to all residents of North Ayrshire aged 16+, no matter your circumstances. All our services are confidential, impartial, and free of charge. If you, or someone you know, requires advice or support with any of these matters, why not get in touch? You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002; alternatively visit our website where you can find out more about our services, use our live chat service , or submit a referral form .

We are Hiring

Wed, 01 May 2024 13:14:52 GMT

VACANCY: Marketing Communications Officer

BACKGROUND

CHAP is an Ayrshire based charity, offering advice and support with debt, welfare, and housing. It has been helping people from a base in Ardrossan for over twenty years and has recently expanded into offering services within community hubs.

We are ambitious to develop the community hub model further and to expand our geographic scope. We seek to employ a communications officer who shares our passion for offering non-judgemental support to help people live their best lives.

JOB SPEC

This is a new role, which we see as being full-time but are open to discussion on part-time or flexible hours.

We are office-based in Ardrossan (when not working at community hubs across Ayrshire) but are open to discussion of hybrid working.

The Marketing Communications Officer will report to the CEO and will have the support of colleagues involved part-time in fundraising and marketing. We are a cohesive and supportive group of people, committed to looking after colleagues and community, as well as those whom we directly support.

You would be responsible for establishing and maintaining information flow with key stakeholders, internally and externally.

This would include producing a regular online newsletter for staff, producing marketing and communications materials for fundraising purposes and creating/curating content for CHAP’s social platforms.

PERSON SPEC

You are someone who is digitally-savvy, and who enjoys researching material to illustrate the points you want to make.

You will enjoy writing and have good communication skills, as well as natural empathy with a wide range of people, some of whom may be experiencing hard times.

You will be familiar with social media and, ideally, digital marketing techniques in order to build CHAP’s (currently limited) online profile.

A self-starter, we want you to be pro-active and suggest ways to broaden and improve our reach to diverse stakeholders; from public and private sector funders to those experiencing debt, welfare, and housing challenges, and of course, to colleagues.

You can also download our recruitment privacy policy .

This post is subject to appropriate references and a PVG scheme record disclosure.

Closing date for applications is noon on Friday 17th May, with interviews taking place on Wednesday 29th May 2024.

CHAP is an equal opportunities employer.

Making the Most of Your Money: The Advantages of Checking Your Credit Score

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 10:36:19 GMT

Keeping an eye on your credit score can make a big difference in your financial life, and here’s why:

What’s a Credit Score?

Your credit score in like a report card for your money habits. It shows how good you are at managing your finances. In the UK, it’s usually a number between 0 and 999 (various credit reporting services can use different scales) that lenders use to decide if they’ll lend you money or not. It is also used for tenant screening, insurance, and a wide range of financial products, and can affect the interest you pay.

Why Check Your Credit Score?

Know where you stand: Checking your score helps you see how well you’re doing financially. It’s like looking at a map to see where you are so you can figure out where to go next.
Get better deals: A good score means you can get better deals on things like loans or credit cards. It’s like having a coupon for lower prices.
Catch mistakes: Sometimes, there are mistakes on your credit report that can hurt your score. Checking in regularly helps you catch those mistakes and fix them before they cause trouble.
Plan ahead: Your credit score can help you plan for the big things like buying a house. By keeping an eye on it, you can make sure you’re on track to reach your goals.

How to Check Your Score

Thanks to technology, it’s easy to check your credit score online. Just like checking your email, you can log in to a website or app to see your score anytime, anywhere. There are several credit score services available for free; these include:

ClearScore - https://www.clearscore.com/
TransUnion - https://www.transunion.co.uk/
TotallyMoney - https://www.totallymoney.com/
CreditKarma - https://www.creditkarma.co.uk/

Taking Charge of Your Finances

Checking your credit score is like keeping tabs on your financial health. It helps you make better money decisions and opens doors to exciting opportunities. So why wait? Start checking your score today and take control of your financial future!

If you live in North Ayrshire and need advice or assistance with anything related to money, debt, benefits, and housing, why not get in touch with CHAP? All our services are free, confidential, and accessible; call us on 030 0002 0002 or you can access our live chat or submit a referral form .

End of Rent Cap in Scotland: New Rules for Rent Increases

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 09:56:54 GMT

We encourage people to familiarise themselves with their rights as changes in rental regulations come into place.

The longstanding rent cap has come to an end, bringing into place new rental regulations. As of 1 ^st of April 2024, landlords are no longer restricted by the previous 3% cap on rent increases, meaning that they now have the discretion to adjust rent prices in line with market conditions.

This change has sparked concerns among tenants about the potential for steep increases in rental prices, especially as most are still dealing with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, and housing affordability remains a pressing issue for many households.

In response to these concerns, the Scottish government has introduced new regulations to safeguard tenants from steep, unaffordable hikes in their rent costs. Under the new rules, landlords are required to provide their tenants with three months’ notice before implementing any rent increases. The introduction of this notice period aims to give tenants adequate time to assess the proposed changes and make informed decisions about their housing situation.

Additionally, landlords are not permitted to increase rents more than once in any 12-month period, a measure which aims to prevent multiple rent hikes within a short span of time, providing tenants with greater stability and predictability in their housing costs.

For more information on the new rules, to check your tenancy type, and find out how these rules might relate to you, click here .

While these regulations offer some protection to tenants, it is essential for individuals renting properties in Scotland to familiarise themselves with their rights under the new rules. The changes in rental regulations highlight the importance of understanding the terms of tenancy agreements and being aware of their available options in the event of disputes with landlords.

CHAP is dedicated to providing assistance and support to individuals facing housing issues, offering a range of services to help tenants navigate the complexities of the rental market. In light of these developments, we are urging individuals to educate themselves about their rights and responsibilities as tenants.

Whether you're facing rent increases or encountering other difficulties with your landlord, CHAP is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. We also provide advice and advocacy services relating to benefit and debt; so, if you live in North Ayrshire and need assistance with any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call us on 030 0002 0002 , access our live chat service or submit a brief referral form .

Easter Holidays in Ayrshire

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:07:17 GMT

It seems like Christmas was just last week – how is it Easter already??

With the Easter break upon us, families will no doubt be looking for ideas to keep the kids entertained whilst they are off school. Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald have put together a handy list of suggestions, all of which are free entry and accessible to those living in North Ayrshire, their list includes:

Eglinton Park, Irvine
Dean Park, Kilmarnock
Ardrossan Beach Front
Maritime Museum, Irvine
Dumfries House, Cumnock

And if you are thinking of heading to Irvine Beach Park, Coastwatch is holding a free Easter Egg hunt on Easter Saturday 20th April at 12 noon. The hunt is open to kids of all ages. Hunters should gather at 12, for a 12.15pm start.

Each child will receive an Easter egg at the end but they must register first. To register phone Coastwatch Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm on 01294 271855 with name, address, and number of kids. The hunt starts and ends at the Pavilion, going through Beach Park and back along beach.

To read the full article and see all recommendations, follow the link to the article here .

CHAP will be closed from 5pm on Thursday 28th March and will reopen at 9am on Tuesday 2nd April. If you are concerned about anything whilst we are closed, please visit our website FAQs page where you will find guidance relating some emergency situations that can arise.

You can also call 030 0002 0002 where you can leave a voicemail and someone will respond when we reopen on Tuesday.

The Crucial Importance of Seeking Help for Debt, Benefit, and Housing Issues

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 15:12:21 GMT

Financial stability is often a delicate balance. Anything can happen; unexpected expenses, job loss, ill health, or change in circumstances can very quickly spiral into overwhelming debt, benefit problems, and housing insecurity.

Despite how common and unpredictable these challenges can be, many individuals and families hesitate to seek help until their situation becomes dire. However, at CHAP, we always encourage people to reach out for assistance as early as possible; it can make a world of difference.

We actively reject the stigma that still surrounds this, and we are working to normalise asking for help; if you needed advice on a health issue, most would not hesitate in approaching their doctor – we want to get to this place with money and housing advice also.

Addressing Debt Head-On

Debt can creep up on anyone, regardless of their income or background. Whether it’s mounting credit card bills, overdue loans, mortgage or rent arrears; ignoring the debt only makes things worse. Many people delay seeking help due to feelings of shame or embarrassment, but this only perpetuates the cycle of financial struggle.

At CHAP, we provide a safe space for people to discuss their problems confidentially, and we promise to listen. Our professional team of advisers understand the complexities of debt and can explain all your options to you – most often people realise they have more rights and options than they thought.

We can offer practical solutions, tailored to your individual circumstances; it is never a one-size-fits-all approach. From helping to negotiate with creditors, setting up manageable payment plans, we empower individuals to regain control of their finances, often helping to reduce their stress and improve their overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Navigating Benefit Challenges

Navigating the welfare system can be daunting; particularly when it involves sudden changes in circumstances. Delays or errors in benefit payments can often lead to more financial strain, leaving individuals and families struggling to make ends meet.

At CHAP, we can assist with benefit calculations, completing applications, and challenging decisions; we can also provide representation at tribunals to ensure you are treated fairly, and your voice is heard.

Seeking assistance early in the process is always recommended; however, we can step in to help at any point in the process, so if you are facing challenges with the benefits system, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

Secure Stable Housing

Housing is a fundamental human need, yet many individuals and families face housing insecurity due to issues such as eviction, rent arrears, or inadequate accommodation. Left unaddressed, these problems can have a negative effect, impacting health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

CHAP provides advice on tenant rights, negotiates with landlords and housing authorities, and challenges decisions around homelessness; we can also provide representation at court and tribunals to make sure your voice is heard.

We find that a lot of our clients are not aware of their rights, especially when it comes to housing, and we aim to ensure people are never disadvantaged by a lack of information regarding their rights.

In times of financial hardship, reaching out for help can be the first step towards regaining control and securing a stable future. Whilst we would always encourage people to seek help as early as possible, to prevent the more severe measures , it’s never too early or too late to approach CHAP for help.

If you are aged 16+ and live in North Ayrshire, don’t hesitate to reach out to CHAP if you need assistance with your benefits, housing, or debt issues. Our team of friendly, informed advisers are here to help. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , or you can use the live chat service , or submit a brief self-referral form .

🚨 Attention All 🚨

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:37:10 GMT

We have some exciting news to share with you!

Following our successful application to the Irvine Locality Partnership requesting funding from their Community Investment Fund, we are now in the process of setting up a network of outreach services throughout the Irvine area.

So, we can officially announce that our services are now available as detailed below:

Mondays

‘The Circuit’ (KA Leisure), Quarry Road, Irvine KA12 0TH

Tuesdays

Redburn Community Centre, Dickson Drive, Irvine KA12 9EW

Springside Community Centre, Overtoun Road, Springside, Irvine KA11 3BG

Wednesdays

Fullarton Community Hub, Irvine KA12 8DF

The outreach services are being provided on an ‘appointment only’ basis. We aim to give our clients as much choice as possible, and we are so excited to now be able to offer residents of Irvine more of a choice to access our services closer to home.

More information will be available soon!! ⌚��

As always, you can access our services by calling us for free on 030 0002 0002 , or you can access our live chat service or submit a self-referral form and we will be in touch.

CHAP has Achieved Double Accreditation and is now a ‘Living Wage’ AND ‘Living Hours’ Employer

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:25:20 GMT

We were so proud to achieve our ‘Living Wage’ accreditation last year, and we are so happy to announce that we have now achieved the ‘Living Hours’ accreditation, demonstrating that we offer both a flexible and stable working environment for our team.

Scottish Housing News published an article recently highlighting this news, as well as providing some other key information about what’s happening at CHAP at the moment. To find out more, please follow the link below:

https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/housing-advice-charity-chap-seeks-help-to-continue-vital-work

CHAP provides free, confidential, and impartial advice to residents in North Ayrshire relating to Welfare Rights, Housing, and Debt. If you, or anyone you know requires support, you can contact us by calling 030 0002 0002 , or you can visit our website where you can complete a referral form and someone will call you back, or you can access our live chat service.

Helping You Manage Money Better: The Multiply Project

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:50:49 GMT

We're excited to share how our Multiply Project, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, is making a positive impact in North Ayrshire. Our goal is simple: empower individuals and families by improving their numeracy, budgeting, and financial literacy skills.

Boosting Confidence with Numbers - Understanding numbers can be tricky, especially when it comes to finances. That’s why our team is here to help you build confidence in managing bills, understanding income, and planning for the future. The Multiply Project is all about multiplying your confidence with numbers.

Taking Control of Finances - Budgeting is crucial for financial stability. Our advisers provide personalised guidance to help you create realistic budgets, manage expenses effectively, and take control of your finances. Let us help you ‘multiply’ your ability to budget wisely for a more secure future.

Making Informed Choices - We dive deep into financial literacy, offering workshops and one-to-one sessions to enhance your understanding of saving strategies, banking, and more. The goal is to ‘multiply’ your opportunities and empower you to make informed financial choices aligned with your goals.

Whether you need help with numeracy, budgeting, or financial literacy our team is ready to guide you. Join us in multiplying your potential for a brighter, financially secure future.

To access the Multiply Project, or any of our services, you can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 or you can access our live chat on the website ; alternatively, you can submit a self-referral form here .

To our partners, we invite you to join us in creating a more resilient community. Let’s spread awareness and promote financial education. Together we can multiply positive outcomes for individuals and families in North Ayrshire. External. If you have a service user who would benefit from Multiply or any of our services, you can refer directly by completing our agency referral form here . If you have a group who would benefit from one of our workshops, please get in touch by calling 030 0002 0002 , or email enquiries@chap.org.uk .

Your Path to Stability Starts Here: CHAP Offers Expert Guidance in Housing, Welfare Rights, and Debt Solutions.

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 16:13:20 GMT

Starting on a journey toward stability has never been more accessible, especially as CHAP provides specialist advice and advocacy services in a variety of settings throughout North Ayrshire. To potential clients seeking support and referring agencies searching for reliable partners, we stand as a beacon of hope and empowerment, ready to guide individuals and families through challenges and toward a more secure future.

Unlocking Your Housing Potential: Tailored Support Awaits

Are you searching for stable and secure housing? Are you facing issues with your landlord or a neighbour? Are you struggling with your rent payments? Our dedicated team of advisers are here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you are navigating tenancy issues or seeking assistance in understanding your housing rights, our goal is to ensure your home provides stability and peace of mind.

Maximise Your Welfare Entitlement: Let Us Navigate for You

Navigating the maze of welfare systems can be overwhelming: is it DWP or Social Security Scotland? What does ‘New Style’ mean? Will a change in circumstances affect my entitlement? These are only some of the questions we help to answer for our clients every day. Our experts specialise in demystifying the process, providing accurate information, advice, and advocacy, we aim to ensure you receive the financial support you rightfully deserve.

Liberate Yourself from Financial Stress: Customised Debt Solutions Await

If the weight of debt is holding you back, our organisation is here to help you break free. Through personalised debt management advice, we equip you with the tools to regain control of your finances. We can work alongside you to negotiate payment plans, discuss all debt options specific to your individual circumstances, and provide practical assistance every step of the way.

Accessing our Services

For those seeking assistance, we aim to make our services as accessible as possible. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , visit our website where you can access our live chat service, or complete a self-referral form here .

To referring agencies, we extend a collaborative hand in empowering individuals and families to confidently access the support they need. Together, we can make a difference by giving individuals and families a voice, paving the way for a brighter, more secure future for everyone in our community. You can refer your service users to us for the required support by completing our online referral form here .

Spending Smart for a Merry Christmas: A Guide to Budgeting and Debt-free Celebrations

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 10:36:26 GMT

We can’t believe it’s December already! And with the snow arriving, it makes us turn our attention to the festive season. It is a time for joy, family gatherings, and spreading goodwill. However, the excitement of Christmas can often lead to overspending, leaving many with a financial hangover in the new year. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies for budgeting during the holidays, ensuring a debt-free start to the new year.

Set a realistic budget:

The first step to a debt-free Christmas is setting a realistic budget. Take a close look at your finances and determine how much you can comfortably spend on gifts, decorations, and celebrations without negatively affecting your financial stability. Remember to include all potential expenses, from presents to festive meals and decorations. It is also helpful to track your spending. Budgeting apps or spreadsheets can help you to monitor your expenses in real-time. Regularly reviewing your budget will help you identify areas where you may be overspending and allow you to adjust as needed.

Create a Gift List:

Avoid the temptation of impulse buying by creating a detailed gift list. Prioritise your recipients, allocate specific budgets for each person, and consider thoughtful and budget-friendly gift options. This approach not only helps you to say within budget, but also ensures your gifts are meaningful. Google Sheets provides a free Christmas gift list template and budget tracker on their app, which is available on the App Store and Google Play.

‘Mums Make Lists’ online blog shares some useful information and tips on how to make the most of this free app to make Christmas an enjoyable time for all.

https://www.mumsmakelists.com/simple-christmas-gift-shopping-planner/

Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts:

Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and promotions during the holiday season. Many retailers offer special deals on gifts, decorations, and festive food. Plan your shopping around these opportunities to maximise your savings without compromising on the quality of your purchases.

Consider DIY Gifts:

Get creative and consider making your own gifts. Handmade presents often carry more sentimental value and can be a cost-effective alternative to store-bought items. Whether it’s homemade treats, personalised crafts, or photo albums, DIY gifts add a personal touch to your celebrations.

Secret Santa or Gift Exchanges:

If you have a large family or group of friends, suggest a Secret Santa or gift exchange system. This way, each person only has to buy one gift, reducing the financial burden on everyone involved while maintaining the joy of giving.

Plan Festive Meals Wisely:

Christmas feasts can be expensive, but strategic planning can help you save money without compromising on the celebration. Consider potluck-style meals where each guest contributes a dish or explore affordable yet delicious recipes that won’t break the bank.

Avoid Unaffordable Debt:

While credit cards and other credit options such as Klarna and Clear Pay offer convenience, they can also lead to post-holiday, unaffordable debt. Wherever possible, use cash or debit cards to make purchases. If you do use credit options, make sure to pay off the balance in full each month to avoid high interest rates and late payment charges.

Your friends and family would not want you to be stressed or to get into debt to buy them gifts; by approaching the holiday season with a well-thought-out budget and plan, you can enjoy all the festivities without the financial stress that often follows. Take control of your spending during the holidays and set the stage for a debt-free new year, allowing you to start a fresh new year with financial peace of mind.

If you live in North Ayrshire and you are already facing financial worries such as unaffordable debt, or budgeting difficulties, get in touch with CHAP, and our friendly team will work with you to help overcome these issues. Call us for free on 030 0002 0002 ; you can also find out more about our services and contact us via our live chat service at www.chap.org.uk .

CHAP is looking for people who want to really make a difference.

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:53:05 GMT

hope - help - home

Post: Information and Advice Worker x 2 (full time, temporary for one year).

CHAP, a charitable organisation based in the West Coast of Scotland, is looking for 2 Information and Advice workers to join our successful team who, in 2022, secured £1.9 million in financial gains for our clients. But we want to do better! Therefore, we are looking to increase capacity by adding further information and advice workers to the team. This is a role where the successful candidates can really make a difference in supporting the most vulnerable people in our community.

The successful candidates will support the delivery of our advice services and will have extensive knowledge in the areas of money advice and welfare rights as well as experience of working with service users in an empowering capacity across all elements of their lives to achieve long-term positive outcomes. Applicants should also have experience of representing and negotiating on behalf of clients.

A driving licence and access to your own transport is essential.

PERSON SPEC (PDF)

JOB DESCRIPTION (PDF)

Application for Employment (Word doc)

This post is subject to appropriate references and a PVG scheme record disclosure.

Closing date for applications is noon on Wednesday 29th November, with interviews taking place on Wednesday 6th December 2023.

CHAP is an equal opportunities employer.

Website Referrals Are Now Live!

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:36:56 GMT

You can now refer to CHAP directly through our website!

We know it can be intimidating to pick up the phone and make contact with organisations. The thought of asking for help and talking about your personal circumstances can be daunting - we completely understand!

To help with this, we have created an online referral form which can be accessed directly on our website. This allows you to provide all your information, tell us your circumstances, and let us know what issues you’re dealing with without having to make that initial phone call.

Once this is submitted, a member of our friendly team will be in touch via the preferred contact method stated on your form. We will get an appointment arranged for you at a suitable date and time; at this stage we will also try to offer any relevant advice on steps you may be able to take in the meantime.

You can complete a referral form for yourself at " Access our Services "

External organisations and agencies can also refer to CHAP through our website at " Refer to CHAP " - please make sure you have the persons permission to do so.

Remember, all our services are completely free, confidential, and impartial! We can help with a wide range of issues relating to benefits, housing, and debt, and anyone from North Ayrshire can access our services, no matter your circumstances.

The sooner you get in touch, the better; but it’s never too late to contact us for help - we will always do whatever we can to assist you.

Don’t get caught out by free trials and subscriptions!

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 10:05:58 GMT

Have you ever signed up for a free trial of something and then forgot to cancel it before it ended? Or subscribed to something you still paid for long after your need for it expired? If you have, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey, more than half of UK consumers have wasted money on unwanted subscriptions that they forgot to cancel after a free trial or when they no longer needed the product or service.

Free trials are a great way to try out new products and services without paying anything upfront. They can help you save money, discover new things, and enjoy some perks. But they can also be a trap if you don’t pay attention to the fine print. Some of them may require you to enter your credit card details when you sign up, and then automatically charge you when the trial period ends. Some of them may have hidden fees or terms and conditions that make it hard to cancel. And some of them may not even remind you when your trial is about to expire.

So how can you avoid falling into the free trial trap? Here are some tips that can help you:

Before you sign up for a free trial, read the terms and conditions carefully. Make sure you understand what you are agreeing to, how long the trial lasts, how much it will cost after the trial ends, and how to cancel it.
Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to cancel the free trial before it ends. You can also use apps or websites that can help you track your subscriptions and send you alerts when they are due.
Check your bank statements regularly and look for any charges that you don’t recognize. If you see any, contact the company and ask for a refund. You can also dispute the charge with your bank or credit card provider if necessary.
If you like the product or service and want to continue using it after the trial, look for the best deal possible. You may be able to get a discount or a better offer if you shop around or negotiate with the company.
If you subscribed to something, review your need for the product/service, and cancel your subscription for things you no longer need or use.

Just recently, whilst looking over a client’s Income and Expenditure, we realised that they had been paying £20 per month for several years and had no idea what this was for. After further investigation, we found that they had subscribed to a service and had forgotten about it. This meant that over almost 20 years, they had paid around £5,000 for something they did not even remember doing.

Free trials can be a great way to try new things, but they can also be a costly mistake if you’re not careful. So be smart and don’t let them catch you off guard. Remember, nothing is truly free in this world!

CHAP provides free, confidential, and impartial advice and advocacy services to residents of North Ayrshire. If you are struggling with any issues in relation to benefits, housing, or debt, please contact our friendly team on 030 0002 0002 or email enquiries@chap.org.uk . You can now complete a self-referral form on our website here .

Have your say!

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 13:16:25 GMT

North Ayrshire Council are currently undertaking a review of their Financial Inclusion Strategy. The current strategy is for the period of 2023-2028, and they are asking residents to share their views on how the financial inclusion services can be improved to better meet their needs.

Financial inclusion covers things like benefits, money, and debt, as well as access to assistance with energy costs, food, housing, and banking.

To have your voice heard, you can complete the survey online by clicking here . The form takes around 10 minutes to complete and closes at 5pm on Friday 3rd November 2023.

Your response will be completely anonymous and will help to inform the action plan for 2024-2028.

If you do live in North Ayrshire, and need assistance with any issues related to benefits, housing, or debt, our friendly, professional advisers are here to help. To get in touch, call 030 0002 0002 , or you can now complete an online referral form on the homepage of our website.

Cost of Living Payments

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 13:00:42 GMT

If the cost-of-living crisis is taking its toll, make sure you are aware of what help you are entitled to.

Have a look at the websites below detailing what benefits and support are available from the Department of Work and Pensions.

https://www.socialsecurity.gov.scot/benefits

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/millions-of-low-income-households-to-get-new-cost-of-living-payments-from-spring-2023?fbclid=IwAR0YrA9_7LzGPAX6JmFqzePvF3H1BNciMsv5csot_6LEfhButbNEXrVlshQ

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment

If you want help find out which benefits you might be entitled to, our advisers are here to help. We can complete benefit checks, help you to apply for the correct benefits, and appeal decisions on your behalf if required.

CHAP provides free, impartial advice to anyone in North Ayrshire facing benefits, housing, or debt issues. Visit chap.org.uk or call 030 0002 0002 .

Do you know where to access our services?

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:18:59 GMT

Through these continuing challenging times, CHAP wants to make sure that the people who need our services, are able to access these as easily as possible. Whilst we are based in Ardrossan, we are aware that not everyone will be able to reach us. We offer telephone appointments for those who prefer these, but most of our clients like to meet their adviser face-to-face. This is why we decided to take our services out in the community and now deliver our services in person from a variety of hubs throughout the area.

These are located in:

Claire Hodge Community Hub , Kilwinning Community Sports Club, Pennyburn Road, Kilwinning KA13 6LF.
Every Wednesday + Thursday.
Bridgend Community Centre , 17 Bridgend, Kilbirnie KA25 7DJ. Every Tuesday + Thursday

Both these outreach facilities are made possible by funding received by the Scottish Government, through the Communities Mental Health + Wellbeing Fund.

Whitlees Community Centre , Carrick Place, Ardrossan KA22 7DT. Every Monday.
The Ayrshire Community Trust (TACT) , 27-29 Vernon Street, Saltcoats KA21 5HE. Every Monday.
Ardeer Youth + Community Centre , Shore Road, Stevenston KA20 3LA. Every Tuesday.

These three outreach facilities are made possible by funding received by North Ayrshire Council through the Three Towns’ Community Investment Fund.

Please note that there is no ‘drop-in’ facilities at these locations, we operate pre-booked appointments only.

If you are facing issues with anything relating to housing, benefits, or debt, give us a call on 030 0002 0002 , and we will arrange an appointment with you at a location that is most accessible and convenient to you.

Challenge Poverty Week 2023

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:50:56 GMT

The 2023 Challenge Poverty campaign is fast approaching and is taking place from the 2 ^nd to the 8 ^th of October. At CHAP, we are committed to reducing poverty and helping people to understand their rights. During Challenge Poverty Week we will be running and getting involved in various events, helping to deliver the key messages of The Poverty Alliance involved in the campaign which are:

We can build a society where everyone has the income they need to live in freedom, dignity, and security.
We can strengthen our social security safety net, pay at least the real Living Wage, and build high quality public services.
We can redesign our economy to meet peoples’ needs.
Together, we can solve poverty in Scotland!

We will share details of our planned activities on our social media – so make sure you are following us on Facebook and Twitter to keep updated.

If you, or someone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and needs support with benefits, housing, or debt issues, our friendly team of advisers are here to help. Contact us on 030 0002 0002 , or through the live chat service on the website .

Improvement and Development are at the heart of what we do

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 15:17:18 GMT

At CHAP, we are constantly striving to improve, in various ways.

We have further extended our Outreach into communities throughout the Three Towns, building on our existing Outreach projects in Kilwinning and Kilbirnie. We are also working in partnership with Children 1st to ensure the families they support receive additional support in relation to issues they may be facing with their benefits, housing situation, and possibly debt.

We have also recently launched our Multiply project, where we continue to work with groups, individuals, and organisations to help people improve their numeracy in every-day life.

Our team is dedicated to helping as many people as possible through some of life’s toughest challenges, and as such, we know that learning and development of staff is of prime importance.

Three of our colleagues have now completed their SVQ in Digital Application Support at SCQF level 6, and just recently, another two members of the team have signed up to complete their SVQ qualifications, one in Digital Marketing, and the other in Data Analytics.

More information is available in a more in-depth article recently published by the Irvine Times. To read the full article, please visit North Ayrshire: CHAP opens three hubs to help with debt | Irvine Times

As always, if you live in North Ayrshire, and you are struggling with issues relating to housing, benefits, or debt, please get in touch. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , email adviceandinfo@chap.org.uk , or contact us via the live chat service on the website.

Update: Rent Freeze / Eviction Ban

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:17:31 GMT

We previously posted a news article providing information on the Rent Freeze and Eviction Ban that had been put in place by Scottish Government to protect tenants from losing their home and being put under financial pressure by rising housing costs.

Whilst the initial rent freeze ended earlier in the year, this was changed to a ‘rent cap’, where private landlords can increase rent: by up to 3% if they send you a valid rent increase notice (3 months’ notice in writing), or up to 6% if they apply to Rent Service Scotland. Whilst the rent cap remains in place, and currently applies until the end of September 2023, there are plans to extend this until March 2024.

The eviction ban has also been further extended to March 2024. Your landlord is still able to apply for an eviction order, but if granted, this could be delayed by up to 6 months. However, there are still some cases where an eviction can be granted and enforced sooner, such as:

Where the landlord can prove significant financial strain where they need to sell the property
Repossession of the property due to mortgage arrears
The landlord intends to live in the property to avoid their own homelessness
Substantial rent arrears (where rent arrears equate to 6 months or more)
Criminal activity
Anti-social behaviour

As always, the landlord would be required to gain a court order to enable them to enforce any eviction notice. People often panic when they receive a ‘Notice to Quit’ or ‘Notice to Leave’ from their landlord. However, unless the required order has been obtained by the Court or Tribunal, tenants are not required to vacate the property.

At CHAP, we are aware that housing, benefits, and debt issues may cause stress and worry for people, especially when they are faced with things like rent increases, or possible eviction notices on top of the struggles people can face in their day-to-day lives. That is why we are here - to help!

Our friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced team of advisers are here to work with you to tackle some of the worries you might be facing. From a basic benefit check, applications, form-filling, negotiating with lenders, all the way through to providing representation at courts and tribunals, we can be there for you the whole way.

You can get in touch with us by calling for free on 030 0002 0002 , emailing us at adviceandinfo@chap.org.uk , and you can also chat to us via our live chat service which is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

*Information sourced from Shelter Scotland

Partnership is Key!

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 13:36:44 GMT

CHAP is working in partnership with services across North Ayrshire to ensure residents get the help and support they need in all aspects of life. In today's climate, it has become increasingly apparent that none of us know what the future holds, and we can all face unexpected challenges.

An article by Scottish Housing News highlights how multiple services working together helps to create a real safety net for individuals and families, ensuring that there is no wrong door – no matter where you turn to for help, the relevant services will be provided!

You can read the full article at the link below:

New debt advice service for all North Ayrshire residents | Scottish Housing News

If you, or someone you know, lives in North Ayrshire, and needs assistance with issues relating to benefits, housing, or debt, our team of friendly and professional advisers are here to help. You can contact us to arrange an appointment by calling for free on 030 0002 0002 , or by accessing our live chat service on the website.

Kids Summer meal promotions

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

The summer holidays can be a challenging time for families. Trying to keep the kids entertained is one thing, but keeping their tummies full can be another pressure that adds financial stress, especially when kids usually access breakfast clubs and free school meals during term time.

Large companies are becoming more aware of this, especially in light of the cost-of-living crisis and are putting measures in place to help families feed their children for no, or very little cost.

Goodto.com has put together a helpful guide of which cafes and restaurants are running ‘Kids Eat for Free’ or ‘Kids Eat for £1’ promotions during the summer holidays.

https://www.goodto.com/family/family-news/where-do-kids-eat-free-food-613592

Some of the key places that relate to North Ayrshire are:

Tesco - at Tesco Cafes kids eat free from 3rd July - 1st September, providing a purchase of over 60p is made. Clubcard or app is required.

Morrisons - kids eat free at Morrisons café when an adult spends £4.49 or more on a meal. This is an ongoing offer.

Asda - Asda Café’s offer where Kids eat for £1 is continuing over the summer holidays until the end of September. Asda also provides free Ella’s baby food pouches for children under 18 months with any purchase.

Sainsbury’s - kids eat a hot meal or lunch bag (kid’s meals include one main, three sides, and a piece of fruit) for £1 with every purchase of a hot adult meal over £5.20. Available daily from 11.30am.

If you live in North Ayrshire, and are facing any issues with benefits, housing, or debt, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and one of our friendly team will arrange an appointment for you. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , or contact us through the live chat service.

Always make sure Universal Credit are aware of changes in circumstances.

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 16:14:19 GMT

Your Universal Credit could be negatively affected if you do not inform them of changes in your circumstances. Even if these changes seem trivial, or are short-term, Universal Credit need to be made aware of these so that they can make the correct assessment regarding your entitlement each month. Failure to do this could in some cases result in people having to face a fine or even court.

Some changes in circumstances can affect how much you are paid for the whole assessment period, not just the date you report them. The DWP states, “You need to report changes as soon as they happen. Any delay may mean you receive too much money and will have to make a repayment.”

According to the gov.uk website, these changes can include:

Finding or finishing a job
Having a child
Moving in with your partner
Starting to care for a child or disabled person.
Changing your mobile number or email address
Moving to a new address
Changing your bank details
Your rent going up or down.
Changes to your health condition
Becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach.
Changes to your earnings (only if you’re self-employed)
Changes to your savings, investments, and how much money you have.
Changes to your immigration status if you’re not a British citizen.

You can notify Universal Credit of any changes in your circumstances by logging on to your online Universal Credit account - https://www.gov.uk/sign-in-universal-credit .

To find out more about Universal Credit, and whether you could be eligible, visit https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit .

You can also use an independent benefit calculator to find out what other benefits you may be entitled to based on your circumstances.

Turn2Us: https://benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk/survey/1/566befd8-be3c-48d8-b50e-a6ac05b4f98c

Entitled To: https://www.entitledto.co.uk/benefits-calculator/Intro/Home?cid=1702aeb8-efce-40a6-83b3-ae31743d9b4e

If you live in North Ayrshire, and require assistance with benefits, housing or debt, CHAP can help. Call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , email adviceandinfo@chap.org.uk , or contact us via the live chat service on the website .

It’s never too late to learn.

Tue, 30 May 2023 08:37:14 GMT

When it comes to maths and numbers, according to government statistics, 17 million adults in the UK have the numeracy level that we expect to see in primary school children.

CHAP is working in partnership with North Ayrshire Council to deliver the UK Government’s Multiply project as part of the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Numbers are part of our everyday life, whether we are budgeting, paying bills, cooking, buying food, or helping the kids with their homework. We are surrounded by numbers. We are aiming to work with local adults who do experience difficulties when it comes to numeracy, to help improve their skills, abilities, and confidence.

We will be running a number of group sessions, as well as one-to-one sessions, to help people gain an understanding of numbers in everyday life.

If you would like to find out more about how CHAP can help you, please phone 030 0002 0002 , or contact us via the live chat on our website .

CHAP provides free, impartial advice to anyone in North Ayrshire facing benefits, housing, or debt issues.

Could you be missing out? £18 billion in means-tested benefits goes unclaimed each year.

Mon, 15 May 2023 08:03:32 GMT

The latest analysis by New Policy in Practice has revealed that with £7.5 billion unclaimed by 1.2 million households, Universal Credit is the most underclaimed nationally administered benefit. This means that on average, those households are missing out on £6,250 per year, or around £500 per month. During this cost-of-living crisis, every penny really does help, and families are missing out.

It was also revealed that on a local level, Council Tax Reductions are the most underclaimed benefit; with £2.8 billion going unclaimed by 2.7 million people, meaning that those people are on average paying over £1,000 per year more than they need to.

The main reasons for these benefits going unclaimed is believed to be a combination of the complexity of the welfare system, people’s lack of awareness regarding their rights, and what support is available to them, and the stigma that still exists around claiming benefits.

At CHAP, our core value is that no one should be disadvantaged through lack of knowledge or awareness in relation to their rights. We are also working hard to address the stigma surrounding money-related issues.

As such, we have developed several outreach facilities throughout North Ayrshire. These are aimed at taking our services out into the community, in already trusted and established environments, where people feel more comfortable accessing help. At these venues, our fully trained, friendly advisers can provide a whole host of advice and support to individuals relating to the benefits they might be entitled to. We can check your benefit eligibility, help you to make the initial claim, and help you to challenge any unfavourable decisions – we can even provide representation for you at tribunals to make sure your voice is heard.

Our advisers are also experienced in helping with complex housing and debt issues. Please check out the various areas of the website to find out what help we can provide.

These outreach venues include:

Kilwinning Sports Club, Pennyburn - Kilwinning
Bridgend Community Centre - Kilbirnie
Various locations in the Three Towns (Ardrossan, Saltcoats, Stevenston)

The old saying goes, ‘if you don’t ask, you don’t get’. There is literally nothing to lose by checking what you might be eligible to claim. We can’t guarantee anything, but we are here to help you through the process. In the last year, we helped to put almost £2 million into the pockets of local residents in North Ayrshire. You no longer have to miss out.

To book an appointment with one of our advisers either in our office, in one of our outreach venues, or over the phone, please get in touch. You can call us for free on 030 002 0002 , email adviceandinfo@chap.org.uk , or contact us through the live chat on the website .

Debt is the most common issue in Scottish Civil Courts

Tue, 02 May 2023 15:21:53 GMT

According to the Civil Justice Statistics for Scotland 2021-22, Debt is the most common issue dealt with in the Civil Court system - making up almost half of the total issues raised. There was a stark rise of over 21,000 from the previous year, taking the total debt issues raised through the court to almost 27,000.

As a society, we are still dealing with the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic and are still very much in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. Prices continue to rise, and more people are facing financial difficulties.

At CHAP, we are here to help! It is never too early or too late to reach out to us. Our team of experienced money advisers can help you to review your current finances, devise a realistic budget, and address problem debt. We understand that anything can happen to anyone, at any time. All our services are provided free of charge, confidentially, and with absolutely no judgement. The most important thing to know is that you are not alone.

Our appointments can be conducted over the phone, or face-to-face at our office in Ardrossan, or in one of our various outreach venues.

If you live in North Ayrshire, and are facing money worries, reach out to us for free on 030 0002 0002 , or contact us through the live chat on our website .

Free service helps thousands of companies to donate to good causes.

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:17:44 GMT

Did you know that whenever you buy anything online - from your weekly shop to your annual holiday - you could be raising free donations for CHAP with easyfundraising?

There are over 7,000 brands on board ready to make a donation - including eBay, Argos, John Lewis, ASOS, Booking.com and M&S - and it won’t cost you a penny extra to help us raise funds.

All you need to do is:

Go to https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/chap/?utm_campaign=raise-more and join for free.
Every time you shop online, go to easyfundraising first to find the site you want and start shopping.
After you’ve checked out, the brand will make a donation to CHAP at no extra cost to you whatsoever!

There are no catches or hidden charges, and CHAP will be really grateful for your donations.

Thank you for your support.

If you live in North Ayrshire and are facing issues relating to housing, benefits, or debt, please remember our team of friendly, expert advisers are here to help. Give us a call for free on 030 0002 0002 or contact us through the live chat service on our website . Alternatively you can send us a message on Facebook .

Kids can eat for free (or just £1) during the Easter Break

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:18:53 GMT

It’s April already and the Easter Holidays are upon us. Whilst this is an exciting time for the kids, it can put extra financial pressure on parents. As such, we have put together this handy list of cafés and restaurants who are offering free or low-cost options for kids during the school break.

Asda Café

Children under the age of 16 can get a hot or cold meal for just £1. Hot meals now include a piece of fruit, and the cold ‘pick and mix’ option includes a sandwich, drink and offers healthy snacks such as a jelly pot with real fruit, or a jelly squeeze pouch as an alternative to crisps. No adult spend is required to access this offer.

Marks & Spencers

Spend just £5 in the M&S café, and kids can get a main, a snack, and a drink from the kid’s lunch menu for free. This deal is available every day between the 3rd and 14th April (except weekend). Hot and cold options are available, including cheesy tomato pasta, baked potato with sausage and beans, and pancakes with blueberries.

Morrisons

Children under 16 eat for free when an adult spends £4.49 or more on a meal. This offer is available all day, every day during the Easter break.

Sainsbury’s

Kids can eat for just £1 when an adult spends at least £5.20 on a hot meal in the café. Kids can access hot main meal or a cold lunch bag under the deal, which is available all day, every day.

For more information, and to see a full list of deals available, visit the following link www.prima.co.uk/family/kids/a22572732/where-kids-eat-free/

If you live in North Ayrshire, and are facing issues with welfare rights, housing, or debt issues, contact us on 030 0002 0002 , and one of our friendly, professional advisors will be happy to help. Alternatively, you can contact us using the live chat link on the website .

What are the benefits of creating a personal budget?

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:49:20 GMT

Creating and managing a personal budget can help to cut out unnecessary costs, save you money, and prevent you running up debts. It helps you to pay bills on time, set some money aside, and prepare for emergencies.

49% of UK households are paying for subscription services they no longer use, wasting almost £170 per year, with 15% of those saying that they don’t have the time to go through their finances and cancel the unused ones. *However, setting this time aside to review your finances and set a budget could save households hundreds of pounds per year.

If you’re struggling to keep on top of your budget, moneyhelper.org may be able to help get your finances back on track.

With their free ‘budget planner’ you can take more control of your spending and avoid any future debt issues.

https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/.../budgeting/budget-planner

Reach out for advice sooner than later. If you are in need of extra assistance, our dedicated advisors here at CHAP are here for you.

CHAP provides free, impartial advice to anyone in North Ayrshire facing benefits, housing, or debt issues. Call us for free on 030 0002 0002 , or via the live chat service on our website .

*information from comparethemarket.com, published 21/06/2021.

Best Start Foods - £2.3 million still unspent

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 14:15:32 GMT

Families are being urged to check the balance on their Best Start Foods pre-paid card, as there is £2.3 million in payments which have been issued to cards but have not yet been spent.

Best Start Foods helps eligible people with the purchase of healthy food and milk when they are pregnant or have children under the age of three. Once issued with their pre-pay card, people automatically receive a payment of £36.00 for each eligible child every four weeks.

It has been advised that since launching in 2019, 7039 of the cards which have been issued, have never been activated, and a further 3,260 have been activated by never used. This could mean that people have unknowingly built up large balances.

Social Security Scotland is encouraging families to make use of these cards and have already written to some families to urge them to check the balance on their cards via the online system, at a cash machine, or by calling the card issuer, ‘Allpay’. To check their balance at a cash machine, people should enter their 4-digit PIN.

The Scottish Government replaced the UK Healthy Start Voucher scheme in Scotland with Best Start Foods on 12 August 2019
The Best Start Foods scheme is a prepaid card that can be used in shops or online to buy healthy food, for example, cow’s milk, first infant formula milk, fruit and vegetables, pulses, and eggs. It is:
£18 every 4 weeks during pregnancy – the payment amount is per pregnancy. This means the payment amount is the same whether you're pregnant with one baby, or if you're having twins or triplets.
£36 every 4 weeks from your child being born up until they're one year old, or until the first anniversary of their estimated delivery date (whichever is later)
£18 every 4 weeks when your child is between the ages of one and 3 years old.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and needs assistance with this, or any other issue relating to benefits, housing, or debt; do not hesitate to get in touch. One of our experienced advisers will be happy to help. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 or contact us through the live chat service on the website .

Eviction Ban in Scotland - Know Your Rights!

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 10:05:00 GMT

On 6th September 2022, Scottish Government imposed a moratorium (ban) on evictions from private and social tenancies for 6 months, up to at least 31st ^t March 2023. This means that landlords are restricted in carrying out evictions during this time.

Whilst these measures help to ease the pressure on tenants, CHAP want to encourage tenants to continue to meet their responsibilities in terms of paying ongoing rent costs and any arranged payment plans.

There are some exemptions which mean that evictions can still be granted in certain circumstances. CHAP has put together a FAQ in relation to this so that everyone understands their rights and responsibilities.

If you, or anyone you know, living in North Ayrshire, is facing issues with their housing, benefits, or debt, please get in touch. You can call us for free on 030 0002 0002 or reach us on our live chat on the website .

Statutory debt solutions in Scotland have been amended: Know your rights!

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 09:46:59 GMT

From 6th of February 2023, the ‘Bankruptcy and Debt Arrangement Scheme (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023’ will make amendments to and improve the existing statutory debt solutions in Scotland. The changes are being implemented in order to improve access to debt relief for the most financially vulnerable, provide additional protections, and to promote the success of the programmes, especially where the cost-of-living crisis impacts on the ability to meet payments. They also provide wider access to ‘fee exemption’ to those accessing Full Administration and MAP routes to bankruptcy.

The new 2023 regulations make amendments to the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 2016, the Debt Arrangement Scheme (Scotland) Regulations 2011 , and the Bankruptcy Fees (Scotland) Regulations 2018 , which means:

Minimum debt level to access Minimum Asset Protection (MAP) has been removed.
Criteria for applying for a payment break whilst in a Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) has been extended to allow for a reduction in disposable income.
Application fee waiver for individuals who have been assessed by the Common Financial Tool as having no surplus income has been extended.
Following an award of sequestration, the fee for the AiB appointed trustee will increase from £300 to £750.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and the ongoing cost-of-living increases are causing financial stress, please don’t hesitate to reach out to CHAP. Our team of advisors are here to listen and to help. You can contact us for free on 030 0002 0002 , chat to us on our website , or email us at enquiries@chap.org.uk .

UK Government has announced timeline for Cost-of-Living Payments during 2023/24

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:10:39 GMT

Those on qualifying benefits will receive £900 this year (April 23 – March 24), which will be paid in three instalments. In addition to this, the £150 disability payment will be made during the summer, and the £300 pensioner payment during the winter months.

DWP have confirmed that the timeline for the payments will be:

First cost-of-living payment of £301 - Spring 2023
£150 disability payment - Summer 2023
Second cost-of-living payment of £300 - Autumn 2023
£300 pensioner payment - Winter 2023
Third cost-of-living payment of £299 - Spring 2024

DWP have advised that the exact payment windows will be announced nearer the time. Individuals who are eligible to receive the payments will receive these automatically. There is no need to apply.

You may be eligible to apply for one of the qualifying benefits. If you live in North Ayrshire, and you are unsure about your benefit entitlement and would like assistance with this, please get in touch with CHAP. One of our experienced advisers can help you to complete a benefit check, and also assist with completing any applications where appropriate. We also offer help with any housing or debt issues you may be facing. You can call CHAP for free on 030 0002 0002 or speak to us via the live chat on our web site .

CHAP can help you to claim the benefits you are entitled to

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 14:32:00 GMT

Here at CHAP, we support clients with a wide range of circumstances, each of which requires independent support/advice that varies per person.

We would like to share with you the story of John and his daughter, Jane. This is one of CHAP’s success stories in which we were able to help two people get the support and benefits they needed in order to improve their quality of life.

CHAP first came into contact with John when he was referred to us by the NHS when looking for help with benefits related to him having several, complex health issues. CHAP contacted John and arranged an appointment with one of our experienced benefits advisors.

During his appointment, the adviser walked John through the disability benefits application process and submitted the form on his behalf. John felt that thanks to CHAP he was able to get the support necessary to complete his lengthy application. After speaking with John, we found out that his daughter Jane (who he lived with) also had health conditions, meaning that she could also apply for the same disability benefit as John. We therefore booked a follow up appointment for Jane where we assisted her to complete and submit the application form. Jane also felt that CHAP were incredibly helpful in navigating the benefits system as we had not only helped them both complete the initial form but also identified new relevant benefits which could support John and Jane if their application was successful.

Both John and Jane were awarded Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which came with sizeable, backdated payments of almost £3,000 for the household. This made it easier for them to support their health conditions which make day-to-day living much more difficult and expensive. Due to being awarded PIP, the advisor identified that both John and Jane could be eligible to apply for Carer’s Allowance, given the support that they provide to each other. CHAP assisted both individuals to submit a claim for this benefit, which was also successfully awarded. Once again both were very happy with this outcome and the cases were closed with Jane being referred to our peer advocacy service to gain support in her recovery from addiction-related issues.

During these times of the cost-of-living crisis where bills are soaring, and maintaining everyday life is getting harder, it’s important to make sure that you are getting all the support you need. So, reach out now on 030 0002 0002 or email us on enquiries@chap.org.uk .

***This is a case study written for use on the CHAP social media platforms. Any identifying facts and information have been edited to conceal identities. For the purposes of this case study the names John and Jane have been used to represent the clients and preserve anonymity. These names are a pseudonym and shouldn’t be used to assume the demographics of the anonymous clients.

Are you struggling with Universal Credit deductions?

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 09:47:17 GMT

It was reported by DWP that only 25 Universal Credit overpayments had been waived in the past year.

The DWP Minister advised that waivers are only granted in exceptional circumstances - usually where recovery of overpayments is causing substantial medical and/or financial hardship, and it can be proven that the debtor’s circumstances will only improve by waiver of the debt.

It has been advised that if anyone is struggling with the current rate of their UC deductions; those individuals should contact the DWP Debt Management department to discuss affordability, so that a lower rate can be negotiated as appropriate, depending on the person’s circumstances.

If you, or someone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and need advice relating to their benefits, housing, or debt, please contact CHAP on 030 0002 0002 , contact us via the live chat on our website .

We also regularly post helpful information and advice on our Facebook at Twitter pages. Don’t miss out! Why not follow us at Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates?

Christmas - ‘Tis the season not to overspend.

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 11:59:12 GMT

The countdown to Christmas is in full swing! We all want to give our families the best Christmas possible, but this shouldn’t cost your peace of mind. For some advice on how to avoid festive debt, take a look at the top ten tips provided by Citizen’s Advice.

During this cost-of-living crisis, it is natural to worry about finances. CHAP provides free, impartial advice to anyone in North Ayrshire facing benefit, housing or money issues. For further information, visit our website , where you can access our live chat; or call us on 030 0002 0002 .

Rent Freeze/Eviction Ban – Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Bill

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:03:11 GMT

Emergency legislation giving tenants increased protection from evictions and rent increases during the current cost-of-living crisis has now become law. As a result, in-tenancy rent increases have now been capped at 0% - effectively freezing rent prices for tenants both in the social, and private rent sectors, from 6th September 2022 to at least 31st March 2023.

There has also been a moratorium (ban) on evictions from both social and private rented sector properties, effective during the same period.

However, there are exceptions to this, as detailed below

If a rent increase notification was issued before 6th September 2022
Where an eviction order or decree was granted before 6th September 2022
Cases which include anti-social behaviour and criminality
Cases of abandonmen
Substantial rent arrears (defined as at least six-months’ worth of rent*)

Whilst this support has been put in place to assist during the current financial crisis, CHAP encourages all tenants to continue to pay their rent and seek advice/assistance if this is not possible. If anyone living in North Ayrshire needs assistance with housing, benefit, or debt issues, please get in touch. You can call CHAP for free on 030 0002 0002 , contact us through the live chat on our website , or visit our facebook page here .

*defined as £2,250 for the social rented sector - this equates to 6 months’ worth of average rent

Asda Launches £1 Café Meal Deal For Over 60s

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 09:44:57 GMT

The Age UK ‘It Doesn’t Add Up’ report published 21/09/2022, highlights that older people are actively cutting back on food. They are buying cheaper products, buying food that doesn’t need to be heated up, and reducing the number of meals they eat in a day. It also reports that the biggest measure being taken by older people to combat the cost-of-living crisis, is to turn their heating off. This, combined with eating cold food, or skipping meals will have a severe negative impact on people’s physical and mental wellbeing, especially over the winter months.

With the ongoing impact of the cost-of-living crisis, and research showing that people aged 65 to 74 are £163 per month worse off compared to this time last year*, the news that Asda has introduced a new ‘Winter Warmer’ initiative, is a welcomed announcement. Throughout November and December, those aged 60 and over can enjoy soup, a roll, and unlimited tea and coffee for just £1.

This will run alongside their current ‘Kids Eat for £1’ offer which has been in place since June (see our article here for more information), which has seen over 557,000 meals being served, and has been continued beyond the summer holidays due to the high demand and the increasing need for money-saving initiatives.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and are facing debt and money concerns, benefit, or housing issues, please get in touch on 030 0002 0002 , or t hrough the live chat on our website .

*The Age UK ‘It Doesn’t Add Up’ report published 21/09/2022

Challenge Poverty Week

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 13:41:03 GMT

It is #ChallengePoverty Week 2022, and CHAP are working tirelessly to #TurnTheTide on the effects of poverty within North Ayrshire. We strive to maximise the income of families by ensuring people are aware of their full benefit entitlement, and by helping to apply for relevant benefits. We also work to ensure the clients have adequate housing to meet their needs, and by helping individuals to address any debt issues or financial worries they may have.

With the worsening economic climate, we are all facing, our services are more crucial than ever, and we encourage residents of North Ayrshire to contact us if they require support with any of these issues.

There are several ways of contacting us. You can call 030 0002 0002 and speak to one of our friendly and professional advisers; you can contact us through our live chat service on the website, and we can also be reached via our facebook page here .

Scottish Child Payment Increase

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 09:00:04 GMT

Scottish Government has confirmed that the rate of the Scottish Child Payment shall increase from 14 ^th November 2022. Currently, parents are eligible to claim £20 per child under the age of six. This is increasing to £25 per child, and the eligibility is expanding to include children under the age of 16.

In order to claim the Scottish Child Payment, you or your partner are required to be in receipt of one of the following qualifying benefits :

Universal Credit
Child Tax Credit
Income Support
Pension Credit
Working Tax Credit
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (J SA )
Income-related Employment Support Allowance (ESA)

You can apply for Scottish Child Payment here , and if you would like assistance with the application, our experienced team of advisers are here to help. We also understand that the benefit system can be difficult to navigate, and many people do not know which benefits they are entitled to. CHAP can complete a benefit calculation on your behalf and help you to apply for any benefits you are eligible for.

If you live in North Ayrshire and need support regarding this, or if you are facing issues with your benefits, housing, or debt, please call us on 030 0002 0002 or contact us through the live chat on our w ebsite .

Increase to automatic extension period for current PIP awards

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 13:10:50 GMT

DWP has confirmed that as of the 6th of September, they will be extending the automatic extension for current PIP awards awaiting renewal from three months to 12 months.

DWP have stated that ‘the longer extension provides greater certainty for claimants and in particular helps with continuing access to other support’ related to their PIP award, such as their blue badge.

Claimants will be updated on this from DWP via a text message, and from 31st October, a letter will be sent automatically to those affected.

If you live in North Ayrshire and are concerned about your benefits, housing, or you have worries about debt or money, please get in touch by calling us on 030 0002 0002 , or via the live chat on the website .

Are you receiving the correct benefits?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:52:52 GMT

Audit Scotland has identified that there were Housing Benefit overpayments totaling £1.2 million in 2020/21. This is in relation to 177 cases, with the average overpayment value of £6,666.

It was also highlighted in the report that incorrectly awarded Council Tax Reductions totaled £4.6 million, relating to 3720 cases; and incorrectly awarded blue badges to the value of £2.7 million, in relation to 4,616 cases.

Whilst the thought of a benefit overpayment may be daunting, it is important to ensure that you are claiming the correct benefits in relation to your circumstances; and that the relevant organisations are made aware if your circumstances change, even temporarily.

As many know, DWP do eventually track down benefit overpayments, and take action to recover this money via payment arrangements; however, they can also proceed with more severe recovery action such as benefit deductions, wage arrestments or bank account freezes.

During these particularly financially challenging times, this is the last thing that individuals and families need to be dealing with. As such, there are online resources you can use to ensure you are receiving the correct benefits for your current situation, with information available on how to claim any additional benefits you may be entitled to, or to report changes in circumstances to avoid overpayments.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and need support with anything discussed in this article, or are facing other issues with benefits, housing, or debt, please don’t hesitate to contact CHAP. Our team of dedicated advisers are keen to help. You can call us on 030 0002 0002 or contact us through our live chat service.

Serious Consequences of Not Paying Energy Bills

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 11:51:58 GMT

The upcoming rise to energy bills is weighing heavily on everyone’s minds. As such, several media outlets are being used to encourage people to stop paying their energy bills in protest. The Don’t Pay UK Group have been front and centre in demanding reductions to energy bills and have already gained support from thousands of individuals who have indicated their intent to cancel their direct debit payments from October 1st.

Whilst the current situation is causing more and more strain on household finances, it is important that individuals do not follow the advice from such groups. Cancelling direct debits and not paying energy bills can have serious consequences. Energy companies can cut off supply to your property, install a pre-payment meter (which have more expensive tariffs) and can also impose debt collection methods with added fees which will have a negative impact on your credit score.

If you are a resident in North Ayrshire, and you are worried about the impact of the increasing cost of living, please get in touch with CHAP. We provide advice on issues relating to housing, benefits, and debt. You can call us on 030 0002 0002 or contact us via the live chat on our website .

Adult Disability Payment: North Ayrshire residents can now apply

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 13:37:22 GMT

Social Security Scotland have now begun the roll-out of the new benefits system. As part of this, residents in North Ayrshire can now apply for Adult Disability Payment, which has replaced Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Adult Disability Payment is made up of two parts: daily living, and mobility. Each part has its own standard and enhanced rates of entitlement.

Daily Living

Standard award - £61.85 per week

Enhanced award - £92.40 per week

Mobility

Standard award - £24.45 per week

Enhanced award - £64.50 per week

You can apply for Adult Disability Payment if you are over 16 years old, and have not yet reached state pension age, and if you have either a disability or long-term physical or mental health condition, or a terminal illness.

If you are already in receipt of a PIP award, Social Security Scotland will automatically move you over to the Adult Disability Payment; you do not need to apply.

You can apply for this new benefit online, or you can call 0800 182 2222 (8am - 6pm, Monday to Friday) to request an application pack. For more information and to apply online, you can visit https://www.mygov.scot/adult-disability-payment

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and is facing issues with benefits, housing, or debt, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 , or speak to us via the live chat on our website.

Children can eat for just £1 at Asda Cafés across Scotland this summer.

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:42:00 GMT

As the cost of living continues to take its toll, Asda has announced that during the summer holidays, all kids aged 16 and under can buy a hot or cold meal in their cafés for £1. Children do need to be accompanied by an adult although no minimum adult spend is required to be eligible for this offer.

This offer is available 7 days a week and at any time of day, meaning that families do not need to struggle to feed their children during the summer holidays.

A spokesperson from Asda said:

“We know that families can find the summer holidays tough, and our customers are telling us that this year more than ever, they’re concerned about holiday hunger. With that in mind, we are so pleased to be able [to offer] children’s meals for just £1, with no minimum adult spend, to ensure that those who would normally rely on a school meal aren’t left without.”

Baby food is also included in the initiative, with parents able to get a free pouch of Ella’s Kitchen baby food (70g pouch) in their local Asda café.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and needs help with benefits, housing issues or debt/money concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact CHAP on 030 0002 0002 , or through our website at www.chap.org.uk .

Low Income Winter Heating Assistance Confirmed by Scottish Government

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:11:15 GMT

Scottish Government have now confirmed that a guaranteed payment of £50.00 will be made to approximately 400,000 low-income households, and they have announced that this payment will be made in February 2023.

Scottish Government will invest an annual £20million and will provide a reliable payment every winter for those in low-income households. To be eligible, you must be in receipt of one of the following benefits (although additional qualifying criteria for some of these benefits may also need to be satisfied):

Pension Credit
Income Support
Income-based JSA
Income-related ESA
Universal Credit
Support for Mortgage Interest

The payment will replace the UK Government’s cold weather payments, which are unreliable as the £25 payment is only triggered when there is a ‘cold spell’ where the temperature falls below zero-degrees for 7 days in a row.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and are facing issues with benefits, housing, or debt, please get in touch with CHAP on 030 0002 0002 (option 1), and one of our experienced advisors will be happy to help. Our live chat is also available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Chancellor Announces Increase to Energy Bills Support Payment

Mon, 30 May 2022 10:28:12 GMT

On 26th May 2022, Rishi Sunak announced that the original offer of a £200 ‘loan’ to support with energy costs, will now be doubled to £400. This will now be a one-off grant and will not be paid back.

Direct debit and credit customers will have the money credited to their account by their energy provider, whilst households with a pre-payment meter will have the money applied to their meter or via a paid voucher.

The Chancellor also announced a £15 billion package which will involve a cost-of-living payment to those on DWP and HMRC means-tested benefits, a pensioner cost of living payment, and a disability cost of living payment. Whilst the specific details announced only relate to England, it has been confirmed that the Barnett formula provides a share of this funding to the devolved administrations throughout the UK in order that they can decide how to provide support. We will provide an update on this as more information becomes available.

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire and requires advice or support relating to benefits, housing, or debt, please do not hesitate to contact us on 030 0002 0002 . You can also contact us through the live chat on our website.

Roll out of ‘managed migration’ to Universal Credit

Mon, 16 May 2022 08:32:51 GMT

DWP has confirmed that the ‘managed migration’ from legacy benefits (tax credits, Job Seekers Allowance, ESA, etc.) to Universal Credit has resumed from 9th May 2022, initially in Medway and Bolton. It will however continue to be rolled out in various locations throughout the year.

When the roll-out occurs in your area, individuals will receive a letter called a ‘Migration Notice’ from DWP advising that ‘some of your existing benefits are ending’ and that ‘to continue receiving financial support you must claim Universal Credit’.

We will provide an update when this reaches the Ayrshire area, and if you live in North Ayrshire and are unsure about what this means for you, or would like any assistance relating to benefits, housing, or debt issues, please get in touch on 030 0002 0002 , and one of our advisors will be happy to help.

Best Start Grant - Automatic Awards

Tue, 03 May 2022 15:35:52 GMT

Scottish Government confirms their plan to make automatic awards of Best Start Grant early learning and school age payments. As part of their Tackling Child Poverty Deliver Plan 2022-26: Best Start, Bright Futures, Scottish Government says that eligible families receiving Scottish Child payment will not need to reapply when their child becomes eligible for the early learning and school age payments, as these payments will now be made automatically.

The Scottish Government has advised that the change will come into effect later in the year when the Scottish Child Payment is extended to under-16s, and increased to £25 per child, per week .

If you, or anyone you know, lives in North Ayrshire, and would like assistance relating to benefits, housing, or debt, please do not hesitate to get in contact with us on 0 30 0002 0002 , or via the live chat on our website .

Face Masks No Longer Required

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 09:08:26 GMT

In line with Covid-19 guidance from the Scottish Government, our staff and visitors are no longer required to wear face coverings when moving around the building. Screens, face masks, and face shields are still available should someone prefer to use these. For the latest guidance and news on Covid-19, please follow the link below.

https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

If you or anyone you know, who lives in North Ayrshire are facing issues relating to housing, benefits, or debt, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our phone number is 030 0002 0002 , and we are available on live chat on Mondays and Wednesdays 9am-5pm, and on Fridays from 9am-3pm.

Scottish Child Payments Double to £20

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 13:57:21 GMT

As announced by Scottish Government in November 2021, the Scottish Child Payment is doubling in April to £20 per week, per child under 6 years of age. The payment is made every 4 weeks, and it does not affect any other benefit you may be in receipt of.

To be eligible to claim the Scottish Child Payments, you or your partner must be in receipt of one of the following benefits:

Universal Credit
Child Tax Credit
Income Support
Pension Credit
Working Tax Credit
Income-based JSA (Job Seekers Allowance)
Income-related ESA (Employment & Support Allowance)

You can still claim if you have applied for one of these benefits but are not yet in receipt.

For more information on the benefit, including what other benefits you may be eligible for, and to apply, please follow this link: https://www.mygov.scot/scottish-child-payment

If you would like assistance to complete the application for this, or any other benefit; or if you are struggling with debt/money or housing issues, please do not hesitate to get in contact with CHAP. We provide a free, independent, and confidential service, and we can offer face-to-face, as well as telephone appointments.

Our free phone number is 030 0002 0002 and select option 1 for Information + Advice. Or speak to an advisor via the live chat on our website .

Private Parking Fines

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 11:01:43 GMT

Private car park operators in Scotland, England & Wales will have their parking tickets capped at £50 in the majority of circumstances, under new rules set out by the Government. These new rules also tighten the regulations on private car park operators.

This move will cut the value of tickets in half and also push operators to better display pricing policies and their terms and conditions.

Contrary to popular belief, private parking fines, while not a criminal matter, are not always safe to ignore. When you park on private land (like a private car park) you enter into a contract with the landowner. Any signs that clearly display rules for using the car park give you the terms of the contract. The car park owner can take steps to enforce any of these rules if broken and the matter can be taken to civil court.

If you or anyone you know lives in North Ayrshire and are struggling to navigate the welfare system, have housing-related issues, or are dealing with debt, get in touch with CHAP on 030 0002 0002 , or through our live chat service on www.chap.org.uk

Extensions to Eviction Notices are Ending

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 11:19:51 GMT

From 30th March 2022 the extension to eviction notices due to Covid will no longer be in effect. Eviction notices served before 30th March will still keep the extensions, but any new notices served after this date are likely to have a smaller notice period before eviction can proceed.

Scottish Government advises: -

'Given the significant relaxation of restrictions in the vast majority of other areas, and that the housing market has been open and operational for some time now, the Scottish Government believes the public health justification for extended notice periods no longer exists. It is, therefore, the view of the Scottish Government that these provisions should be expired.'

Please see the link below for more information. If you live in North Ayrshire, and you have any concerns about what this may mean for you or someone you know, please get in touch with CHAP on 030 0002 0002 .

https://www.rightsnet.org.uk/housing/news/item/ending-covid-19-related-extension-of-notice-periods-for-tenants-in-scotland-on-30-march-2022

CHAP Features in AM Magazine

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:18:57 GMT

We were delighted to feature in the latest edition of the AM Magazine. Click the link below to read the magazine.

AM Magazine Issue 43

If you require any help with housing, financial or welfare rights issues, you can contact CHAP through the live chat service, available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 9am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk . Or contact CHAP by phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Help with rising council tax and fuel costs in Scotland

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 09:08:56 GMT

The Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes announced that:

£150 will be provided to every household in receipt of council tax reduction in all council tax bands in Scotland;
Local authorities will receive funding to pass on £150 to other occupied household in bands A to D in Scotland. This may be used to offset existing bills or existing debt to the local authority;
The Fuel Insecurity Fund will receive £10 million funding for 2022/2023 so that it can continue to help households at risk of self-disconnection, or self-rationing their energy use, due to unaffordable fuel costs.

People can find their council tax band using the online tool on the Scottish Assessors' website www.saa.gov.uk

Adult Disability Payments Roll Out

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 15:07:02 GMT

The Scottish Government have recently announced the ‘roll out’ dates for their latest devolved benefit, Adult Disability Payments.

This new payment, to be administered by Social Security Scotland, will replace Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which is currently delivered by the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Individuals with ongoing awards of PIP or DLA do not need to apply for Adult Disability Payment. Their awards will be transferred automatically to the new Scottish system from August 2022, with no break in entitlement or payment.

New Applicants residing in North, East and South Ayrshire will be able to make an application starting from 22nd July 2022 before rolling out nation-wide on 29th August 2022.

January can be tough, even without the uncertainty of a pandemic.

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 09:16:03 GMT

More than ever this year, health and work might both be under assault, especially if you are on a zero-hours contract, but CHAP (and other agencies) exist to make sure a tough time does not escalate into a personal crisis for anyone living in North Ayrshire.

Registered Social Landlords (RSL) have already reported an increase in rent arrears from June 2021 to September 2021 as some folks are finding their monthly income stretched thinner and thinner.

As the law stands at the moment, - although evictions were put on hold in Scotland in 2020 during the lockdown, - proceedings are able to restart on the 31 ^st of March 2022. Unless further delays are introduced, many of the cases from 2020 will soon become live again - potentially causing huge stress on families and individuals facing debt and potential homelessness.

So, if you feel you could be one of those facing a coming storm this January, (it doesn’t matter to us how or why it came about) CHAP is here to help. We are independent, impartial and provide free debt, welfare and housing advice for anyone in North Ayrshire.

Our tightly-knit team of professionals has worked hard for the past 20 years to provide the advice people need for the life they deserve.

So, if you live in Ayrshire and are experiencing debt or housing hardship, we want you to know that there’s hope and assistance available to you.

Whoever you are or whatever situation you are in, we are here to help.

Call us on 030 0002 0002 .

Worrying increase in demand for debt advice in Scotland following lockdown

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:50:57 GMT

The government’s advice to ‘stay home’ during the pandemic saved many lives but ongoing uncertainty continues to throw up challenges for many people in Scotland. Since the end of lockdown, the Scottish Government has lifted the ban on evictions and ended the job retention scheme, leading to increased demand for debt, welfare and housing advice.

Ray Chaney, Chair of Ardrossan-based charity CHAP says these changes have resulted in a significant increase of calls and emails for advice in the last quarter of 2021. Similarly, in September, Citizen Advice Scotland reported an increase of 15% from the previous month on people accessing their Scottish Welfare Fund web page. CAB also reported website visits up 29% from pre-pandemic levels.

These figures are a cause for worry as they indicate that many families are worrying about debt and potential homelessness. Moreover, a potential loss of income following lockdown plus recent increases in energy bills and cost of living, especially during the winter months, could leave many without sufficient money for heating or rent.

The upcoming cheer of the festive season will only make things worse for some, as anxiety about money over Christmas can exacerbate mental health issues or further financial problems. Beautiful decorations, holiday feasts and gifts for children and loved-ones are only be a mirage for anyone struggling to keep the roof above their heads.

In situations like this, many people can feel alone and hopeless at what should be one of the homeliest times of the year.

Debbie Alexander, CHAP’s CEO, urges anyone in North Ayrshire facing debt and welfare issues to contact the Ardrossan- based charity for help as early as possible. The charity provides free and confidential support on housing, debt and welfare rights. Seeking early help regarding financial problems can prevent anxiety over the festive season and in some cases, prevent homelessness.

Child Disability Payments

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 15:34:30 GMT

On Monday 22 ^nd November, Social Security Scotland opened up it’s new Child Disability Payments across the whole of Scotland.

This new benefit, a replacement for the UK Government’s Disability Living Allowance was previously only opened to trial areas around Scotland. A child would not be able to receive both Disability Living Allowance and Child Disability Payments.

This benefit is for children aged from 3 months, to 16 years old, though it can continue to be paid up to the child’s 18th birthday and is comprised of two separate categories:

New claims can be made online from: https://www.mygov.scot/child-disability-payment

Or by calling their freephone number: 0800 182 2222

The application is done in two stages, the first stage will be asking for the child’s identity, age, residency, the adults identity and contact details, and bank details for payment. This key stage determines the start of the claim.

The second stage will ask for the child’s condition, care needs, medication, treatments, medical equipment etc.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 9am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

More than 150,000 vulnerable households are in ‘dangerously under-regulated’ exempt accommodation

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:10:45 GMT

Obtained by Crisis, the data shows that 153,701 households in Great Britain were housed in exempt accommodation as of May 2021. This represents a 62 per cent increase from the total of 892,519 five years earlier in May 2016.

More than 150,000 vulnerable households are in ‘dangerously under-regulated’ exempt accommodation, according to new Freedom of Information (FOI) data.

‘Exempt accommodation’ can cover Temporary Accommodation for those currently homeless. The rent for these types of tenancy can be several hundred pounds per week. This can be mitigated by Discretionary Housing Payments for those in receipt of Universal Credit housing costs or those still in receipt of Housing Benefit, but for those not in receipt this can lead to a very large amount of rent arrears in a short space of time, typically when someone is at their most vulnerable.

Scottish Government confirms grants available to tenants in rent arrears as a result of Covid-19 pandemic

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 11:28:43 GMT

The Scottish Government has confirmed it has allocated £10 million funding to councils to provide grants to tenants in rent arrears as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Announcing the funding allocation, that adds to a package of measures available to local authorities to prevent homelessness alongside discretionary housing payments and advice on maximising income, Housing Secretary Shona Robison said -

‘These grants will support tenants and landlords who are willing to work together to address rent arrears and agree a repayment plan to ensure the tenant is able to avoid eviction.

Councils have substantial experience in supporting people who have fallen behind on their rent and are therefore well placed to work with both tenants and landlords in making use of this grant fund. Anyone who has been financially impacted by the pandemic and needs help to avoid eviction should contact their local authority housing department to discuss their circumstances.’

The Scottish Government advises that the one-off grant funding to each local authority will be available until the end of March 2022. In addition, it confirms that there is no application process for tenants or landlords to use. Instead, local authorities will use their discretion to determine whether a grant payment is appropriate in individual circumstances.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Benefit Tribunals

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 09:57:59 GMT

Earlier today the BBC reported that 7 out of 10 benefit tribunals are successful.

The full article is available here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-5828461 3

If you disagree with your benefit decision you can ask for the Department for Work and Pensions to look at your decision again, known as a mandatory reconsideration. Then if you still disagree with the decision you can then take the matter to an independent appeal with HM Courts & Tribunals Service.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Low Income Pandemic Payment

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 13:07:01 GMT

The Scottish Government’s £130 Low Income Pandemic Support Payment (LIPP) provides additional financial support:

to households in receipt of Council Tax Reduction
for agreed households who are exempt or have no liability for Council Tax

Whilst restrictions are being eased, many households will continue to face increased challenges in meeting their basic needs in 2021-22. The payment will support and help to manage the ongoing impact of the pandemic on household finances.

Households are eligible to receive the payment if they satisfy one of the following criteria for at least one day during April 2021:

households in receipt of Council Tax Reduction (CTR)
exempt from Council Tax – all the occupants are under 18; all the occupants are care leavers; all the occupants are severely mentally impaired; the property is unoccupied because the resident has gone to someone else’s home to provide care or the resident receives care elsewhere
certain other households who have no Council Tax liability – these are households who are in temporary accommodation, including a refuge

Only one payment will be made to each eligible household.

You must submit your application by the cut off date of 10 ^th September 2021. Failure to do so will result in a credit being made to your council tax account, where you are liable.

Guidance from North Ayrshire Council on submitting your application can be found here .

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Disability Living Allowance (Long Covid)

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 14:53:44 GMT

The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) has recently updated it’s guidance on post-Covid Syndrome for its Decision makers when dealing with Disability Living Allowance (DLA) claims for children.

The guidance stated that children who have hade Covid and still have significant impairment at 12 weeks and do no seem to be recovering, may have an entitlement to DLA. They must however still meet the qualifying period and prospective test must be considered first.

It also states that the child does not need to have had a positive test result to be diagnosed with the syndrome and that a 12-month award is appropriate for children whose disablement is solely the result of this post-Covid syndrome.

No equivalent guidance exits for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) or Attendance Allowance yet.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Benefit news

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:44:14 GMT

The Department for Work and Pensions will not be renewing their contract with Post Office. This means that from November 2021, benefit payments will no longer be paid into Post Office Card Accounts. The DWP should write to all applicants ahead of this change to inform you of your options, but applicants are advised to take action as soon as possible to avoid any delays in their payments.

The £20 per week uplift on Universal Credit claims, put in place during the pandemic by DWP, is scheduled to end from September 2021, though depending on payment cycles some applicants won’t see the reduction until October 2021.

And a reminder for anyone with school aged children that applications are open through the North Ayrshire Council website for Education Grants, to provide financial assistance with clothing, footwear and free school meals. Applications can be made through the North Ayrshire Council website here .

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 9am to 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Legislation Update

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 14:42:17 GMT

The Scottish Government has approved its extension to the emergency protective legislation to safeguard people from some of the worst financial aspects of the pandemic. These include:

an increased notice period of six months to protect private and social sector tenants from eviction, up from the pre-pandemic 28-day notice period; and
an increase in the minimum debt level that an individual must owe before a creditor can make them bankrupt to £10,000, up from £3,000 pre-pandemic.
the ability for some court and tribunal hearings to be held remotely;

The extension means that these safeguards are now in place up to 31st March 2022.

While this was being discussed, the Scottish Government announced a new £10 million grant to support tenants who have fallen into rent arrears as a direct result of the pandemic.

Coronavirus Protections (Scotland)

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:39:58 GMT

The Scottish Government is this week looking at the protections they put in place to protect individuals during the pandemic.

Currently these protections are still in place until September 2021:

an increased notice period of six months to protect private and social sector tenants from eviction, up from the pre-pandemic 28-day notice period; and
an increase in the minimum debt level that an individual must owe before a creditor can make them bankrupt at £10,000, up from £3,000 pre-pandemic.

The Scottish Government is looking at extending these protections, potentially up to the end of March 2022.

However, this is not guaranteed and CHAP would recommend that if you are struggling with rent arrears or other debts that you don’t delay in seeking help to try and resolve the matter.

Recoverable Hardship Payments

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:37:43 GMT

The DWP has now accepted that it has discretion to waive recovery of recoverable hardship payment debts following a successful judicial review claim.

Prior to this, the DWP would only waive recoverable hardship payments (RHP) where the claimant exceeded a specific earnings threshold.

Now the DWP has accepted that it has discretion to waive RHPs in all cases and has amended its overpayment recovery guide to confirm this (in updated paragraphs 5.83 and 8.1 of the guide).

However, this does not mean that all recoverable hardship debt can or will be waived. It is entirely discretionary; however the following points should be taken into mind.

explain why the DWP should waive the debt - referring to relevant circumstances such as if recovery would be detrimental to the health or welfare of the debtor and enclosing evidence of the risk to the claimant’s health or financial hardship if relevant;
if the sanctions that gave rise to the hardship payment have since been set aside on appeal, make reference to this and explain why this strengthens the case for waiver;
state that the DWP has discretion to waive RHPs, with reference to section 71ZH(1)(a) of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 and paragraphs 5.83 and 8.1 of the DWP Benefit Overpayment recovery guide; and
request that steps are taken pending a decision to suspend recovery, and that if a waiver is not agreed that the decision may be susceptible to judicial review where there is clear evidence of hardship.

DWP confirms they are retrospectively verifying benefit awards made in early stages of Covid-19 Pandemic

Mon, 24 May 2021 14:35:41 GMT

DWP have confirmed that the department is retrospectively verifying benefit awards that were subject to ‘Trust and Protect’ easements in the early stages of the Covid-19 Pandemic. At the start of the pandemic verification easements were applied to enable the DWP to process the surge in claims for benefits. However, work is now ongoing to examine all of the potentially high-risk cases paid out during the last 12 months and the DWP will be re-applying the verification standards that would have otherwise been applied had it not been for Covid-19.

The DWP says that claimants were advised at the time that their applications for benefits were being accepted under ‘specific Covid-19 regulations’ and that they would be contacted at a later date and asked for evidence to support their application. The DWP adds that if the evidence now provided does not support the application, then the award will be reviewed and revised to the correct entitlement and, where appropriate, an overpayment calculated and put into recovery.

CHAP provide advice on a range of benefit issues. If you are contacted by the DWP regarding your benefit claim and you need advice on gathering evidence, or disputing a decision made regarding your benefit claim, you can contact our agency for advice, assistance, and representation if required.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Annual Rent Increased?

Mon, 10 May 2021 14:33:50 GMT

We are now into the new financial year and unfortunately, for many of us, that means increased bills.

For anyone who rents their property, whether from the local authority, a local housing association or a private landlord, your rent may have increased.

If your rent has increased, please remember to update your benefit claim if you are in receipt of Universal Credit or are receiving Housing Benefit from your local authority.

The sooner you act the sooner your new rent amount will get paid, meaning you can avoid a build up of rent arrears.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Approximately half a million people entitled to universal credit at the start of the pandemic did not claim it

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:27:41 GMT

A recent report from Welfare at a (Social) Distance - a national research project investigating the benefits system during the Covid-19 pandemic - highlights that, while much attention has been focused on how well the universal credit system has responded during the crisis, little attention has been given to those who were eligible for universal credit but did not claim it.

Estimating that around half a million people (430,000 - 560,000) were in this position at the start of the pandemic, the report divides them into two groups -

around 220,000 who thought they were eligible for universal credit but didn’t claim it, with 59 per cent choosing not to claim because of the ‘perceived hassle’ of applying - such as the challenge of figuring out if they were eligible, the claims process itself, or the threat of sanctions - and 27 per cent because of the perceived stigma of claiming; and
around 280,000 to 390,000 who wrongly thought they were ineligible - while some people had actively considered applying for benefits and decided they were not eligible, mostly people just had a ‘sense’ that they were not eligible for anything.

While the report notes that estimating survey respondents’ eligibility for universal credit is complex, it highlights that despite using a range of strategies to make ends meet - relying on savings or friends and family, borrowing from banks, and using emergency help such as food banks - people reported that it was often not enough -

nearly half reported severe financial strain - either falling behind on housing costs, not keeping up with bills/debts, or not being able to afford fresh fruit and vegetables daily;
nearly two-thirds were unable to deal with an unexpected expense like replacing a fridge;
more than one-in-six had skipped a meal in the previous two weeks because they could not afford to eat (equivalent to 80,000 people); and
those not taking-up universal credit also had worse mental health on average than the general public excluding claimants.

CHAP recognises that the benefits system, in particular the Universal Credit system, can be complex and confusing for many people. During these difficult times many people are struggling financially and the benefits system exists to help, to prevent individuals from falling into debt to make ends meet. Even those who are working may be eligible if they work part time, or if their work hours are uncertain and they have some weeks or months where they don’t earn the same amount.

If you or someone you know is struggling financially, whether it is with maintaining rent payments, keeping food in the house, or falling behind in debt payments then CHAP can help. CHAP can carry out a benefit check to establish which benefits you are eligible to apply for and can help with the applications so you can be sure that your application is submitted correctly.

You can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Eviction ban extended until September 2021

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 14:25:37 GMT

The Scottish Government has announced a further extension to the ban on eviction orders until the end of September 2021, subject to review every 21 days.

The extended ban applies to all evictions in areas subject to level three or four Coronovirus protection restrictions, but there will be some exceptions including cases of serious anti-social behaviour. You can use this postcode checker the Covid restriction level in your area.

In addition to the eviction ban, the government has taken a range of other measures to support tenants including increasing the Discretionary Housing Fund to provide additional housing support and the introduction of the Tenant Hardship Fund.

Although the eviction ban has been extended it is dependent on the state of Covid restrictions and could end at any time. If you have been threatened with eviction by your landlord or if you are struggling financially and need advice please contact our office to speak with an advisor as soon as possible.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice about housing issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Signal for Help

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:23:53 GMT

The Signal for Help was introduced in Canada by the Canadian Women’s Foundation in April 2020 and has since seen international interest. It is hoped this will be used by those facing domestic violence or similar abuse who cannot “call out” for aid. While introduced as a tool that can be used in video calls, it can also be used in other circumstances.

It is designed as a subtle yet deliberate gesture that can be performed in one fluid motion.

You tuck your thumb into your palm before closing your fingers over the top. As shown by the graphic below

Sources of help are available:

Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline

0800 027 1234 (24 hour service)

Provides confidential information and support to anyone affected by forced marriage or domestic abuse.

Women’s Aid

North Ayrshire Phone: 01294 602 424

East Ayrshire Phone: 01563 536 001

South Ayrshire Phone: 01292 266 482

Provides advice, support and safe accommodation for women (and their children) who have been abused by their partner or ex-partner. They can recommend local groups.

National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline

Phone: 0300 999 5428 or 0800 999 5428

Provides help and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people who are experiencing, or who have experienced, domestic abuse.

Victim Support Scotland

Phone: 0800 160 1985 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm)

Provides information and support for victims and witnesses of crime.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Universal Credit rate changes from April 2021

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:13:37 GMT

The DWP has reissued a recent guidance circular following the government’s announcement that the universal credit uplift will continue until September 2021.

In Budget 2021, the government confirmed that the temporary £20 per week increase to the universal credit standard allowance - introduced in 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic - is to be extended for a further six months in Great Britain on top of the planned April uprating and that the measure will apply to all new and existing universal credit claimants.

As a result, the DWP has confirmed the new Universal Credit standard monthly allowance from April 2021:

for a single person under 25 will increase from £342.72 to £344.00;
for a single person aged 25 or over will increase from £409.89 to £411.51;
for a couple both aged under 25 will increase from £488.59 to £490.60; and
for a couple one or both aged over 25 will increase from £594.04 to £596.58.

Universal Credit claimants should also be aware that North Ayrshire Council will increase rent costs from April 2021. Tenants will normally be advised by letter of the increase. Claimants must inform Universal Credit of the increase to the rent cost, by contacting their work coach through their online journal. If claimants fail to do this their entitlement to housing element may not continue to cover the full rent charge leading to rent arrears.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Ardrossan Food Larder

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 15:11:05 GMT

North Ayrshire Foodbank is beginning to open up a range of Larders across North Ayrshire.

The aim of the Larders is to assist households access good, healthy and nutritional food.

It is a membership service costing £4 per week and this entitles you to one shop per week.

The first one to open will be for Ardrossan South, please see leaflet, membership application form and their rules of service below:

Larder Rules

Leaflet

Membership Form

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Social Security Scotland Update

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:02:02 GMT

Child Disability Payment will be the next new benefit to be introduced by the Scottish Government. The Scottish Government has advised that Social Security Scotland will start taking applications from summer 2021 as part of a pilot, ahead of a full roll-out across the country from autumn 2021. Child Disability Payment will replace the DWP’s Disability Living Allowance for Children.

This will be followed by the introduction of Adult Disability Payment, which will be piloted from spring 2022 and available across the country by summer 2022. People who currently receive UK Government disability benefits will be transferred to the new Scottish system in stages after the new benefits are introduced. This work is expected to be completed to the previously announced timeline of 2025.

CHAP can provide assistance with benefit claims and to assist with forms to migrate a claim to the new benefit systems. If you, or someone you know, requires assistance please contact our office to arrange an appointment.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Update on North Ayrshire Foodbanks

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:59:46 GMT

North Ayrshire Foodbank is a referral-based system for those enduring a short-term crisis.

The options to access a foodbank voucher are:

If you have a support worker from an agency you can ask them. CHAP is one such organisation who can provide a foodbank voucher.
If you live in rented accommodation of a Housing Association or North Ayrshire Council, speak to a tenancy support worker. This includes those in temporary accommodation.
If you are on Universal Credit, Job-Seekers Allowance, Employment Support Allowance or Income Support you can request a voucher from your local Jobcentre.
If none of the above are options, you can phone NAC on 01294 310000 . They will either refer you to a local hub or the Scottish Welfare Fund.

At present the only Foodbank still operating is located at: 150 A Glasgow Street, Ardrossan, Ayrshire KA22 8EU

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Eviction Ban Extended

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 14:56:29 GMT

The ban on eviction orders in Scotland is to be extended to 31 March 2021.

The temporary ban on enforcement - which was due to expire on 22 January 2021 - applies to all evictions in areas subject to level 3 or 4 restrictions , subject to review every three weeks to ensure it remains necessary to protect against the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), until 31 March 2021.

While you could still be taken to court and decree granted to allow an eviction during this time, no evictions will be carried out during this period.

This is due to the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Protection from Eviction) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (SSI.No.425/2020)

There will still be evictions carried out in the most serious of circumstances such as

illegal occupation;
antisocial or criminal behaviour; and
domestic abuse.

We should state that you should continue to pay your rent during this period and if you are facing eviction to either seek independent help or discuss the situation with your landlord, this grace window will only delay existing evictions that will still be carried out after this grace period so we at CHAP would encourage anyone to use this period to try and come to a resolution with your landlord to remain in your home.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Statutory Sick Pay changes for self-isolation and shielding

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 14:54:17 GMT

New regulations have been issued that provide for amendment of statutory sick pay legislation in relation to those self-isolating because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

In force from 24 December 2020, the Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 7) Regulations 2020 (SI.No.1638/2020) -

amend Schedule 1 to the Statutory Sick Pay (General) Regulations 1982 to reflect changes to the self-isolation requirements to ensure that people who have to self-isolate because they have symptoms of coronavirus, have tested positive or are a household contact of a person who has coronavirus, are deemed to be incapable of work for the full period for which they have to isolate;
allow a ‘relevant notification’ that a person has had contact with someone who at the time of the contact was infected with coronavirus, to be given orally (either in person or by telephone); and
expand the list of people who can issue relevant notifications to include the Scottish and Welsh Ministers.

If clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) individuals live in an area where shielding is reintroduced, they will receive a notification advising them to shield, such as a letter from their doctor or from the Government.

If someone is CEV, they should not work outside the home while shielding is in place. If they cannot work from home, they should speak to their employer to see if there are any alternative arrangements that can be made e.g. using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is available from the first day of absence to individuals who are unable to work because they have been advised to shield, for example where they can’t work from home.

CEV individuals can use the notification as proof for their employer that they cannot work on the basis of being advised to shield, which can also be used for SSP purposes.

Temporary Ban on Evictions

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 14:52:13 GMT

In Scotland new regulations have been put in place to stop the enforcement of evictions across private and social rented accommodations from 11th December 2020 through to the 22nd January 2021.

While you could still be taken to court and decree granted to allow an eviction during this time, no evictions will be carried out during this period.

This is due to the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Protection from Eviction) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (SSI.No.425/2020)

There will still be evictions carried out in the most serious of circumstances such as

illegal occupation;
antisocial or criminal behaviour; and
domestic abuse.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Winter Welfare

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:50:10 GMT

As winter approaches, we feel it is important to remind people that although many of the Food Bank branches have closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the North Ayrshire Foodbank in Ardrossan is still open and available to support families through difficult times.

If you find you are struggling for food, you can contact 01294 310000 to request a referral to a Locality Hub. Dependent on your circumstances and North Ayrshire Council support worker availability, they may be able to collect a food parcel on your behalf and deliver it to your home. If not, they may issue a food bank voucher to you directly to allow you to collect a food parcel in person.

If you need support and have questions about the service you can find more information through the Food Bank website here, including contact information.

https://northayrshire.foodbank.org.uk/

In addition the Scottish Government announced on 30th November a new Winter Support Fund package

Key elements of the plan include:

£22m for low income families including £16m to give the low income families of an estimated 156,000 children in receipt of free school meals a one-off £100 payment by Christmas
£7m to help people who are struggling to pay fuel bills
£5m to help those at risk of homelessness find a settled home

However, at this time the Scottish Government has not announced how these funds will be distributed or how low-income families with children will get this £100 or when.

The full article can be found here https://www.gov.scot/news/winter-support-fund-for-families-and-children/

We will continue to keep our site updated as more details become available.

If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt issues, you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Scottish Child Payments - Applications Open!

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 14:47:04 GMT

Following up on our article from 28th September, the applications for Scottish Child Payments are now live for families with a child under six years old. The first payments are due to commence at the end of February 2021.

The payment will be £10.00 per week per child. Families must be in receipt of one of the following:

Universal credit
Child tax credit or working tax credit
Income-based jobseeker’s allowance
Income-related employment and support allowance
Income support
Pension credit

To start your claim please go to

https://www.mygov.scot/scottish-child-payment/how-to-apply/

If you need help with this application, please contact our office for assistance on 01294 475636 .

We also help with other benefits as well as housing and debt matters.

Financial Conduct Authority guidance ends 31st October 2020

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:38:35 GMT

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published guidance to firms earlier this year to help customers who suffered financially as a result of the pandemic, this initial guidance expired on 31st October.

You are now likely to hear from creditors and debt collection firms as they return to their offices and the guidance window has ended.

The FCA has published additional guidance for firms, to ensure that consumers who have benefitted from payment deferrals under the current guidance who still face financial difficulties, as well as those whose financial situation may be newly affected by coronavirus after the current guidance ends, continue to get the support they need.

The measures mean firms will offer further short and longer-term support reflecting the circumstances of their customers. This could include extending the repayment term or restructuring of the mortgage. Where consumers need further short-term support, firms can continue to offer arrangements for no or reduced payments for a specified period to give customers time to get back on track. This additional guidance came into force on 16 September 2020.

The new guidance encourages firms to work with and support customers but does not guarantee payment holidays for those suffering financially, it is now up to the firms themselves to offer this or not.

We would like to remind you that we are still open and able to assist anyone struggling with debt, benefits or housing issues. Please contact us through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

New Grant available for those in self-isolation

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 13:34:59 GMT

Applications for the Self-Isolation Support Grant have opened for low income workers who are asked to self-isolate and would lose income if they needed to isolate.

The £500 grant will help those who have been asked by Test and Protect to isolate, following testing positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) or having been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.

These payments are designed to help people self-isolate for the required period to stop the spread of the virus, but who would face financial hardship due to being asked to self-isolate and will be targeted at those in receipt of Universal Credit or legacy benefits who are employed or self-employed.

People can apply for the Grant by contacting their local authority. People will be informed on how to apply for the Self-Isolation Support Grant after they have been contacted by Test and Protect and asked to self-isolate through a follow up call from their local authority. People may make an application of their own accord prior to the follow-up call from their local authority. Payments are available to eligible people who were told to self-isolate from 28 September onwards.

The Self-Isolation Support Grant does not cover people who are quarantining after returning to the UK from abroad, unless they have tested positive for coronavirus or have been told to stay at home and self-isolate by the Test and Protect Service.

Grants can be received more than once if people are asked to self-isolate on more than one occasion, as long as these do not overlap.

In the meantime If you require further information on the above, or if you need any other advice regarding benefits, housing or debt you can contact CHAP through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

New Job Support Scheme

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 13:31:57 GMT

A new UK Government Job Support Scheme has been announced, with the intention of protecting jobs in businesses facing lower demand over the winter months because of Covid-19, to help keep their employees attached to the workforce. The scheme will open on 1 November 2020 and run for 6 months, ending in May 2021.

To be eligible, an employee must work at least a third of their normal hours, paid for by their employer. The hours not worked will be subsidised by the government and the employer, each paying a third of the remaining hours. The amount the government will pay is subject to a cap of £679.92 per employee each month. This will ensure employees earn a minimum of 77% of their normal wages, where the Government contribution has not been capped.

Employees do not need to have been part of the Job Retention Scheme which is due to end on 31 October to be eligible. Employees will be able to cycle on and off the scheme and do not have to be working the same pattern each month, but each short-time working arrangement must cover a minimum period of seven days.

It is important to note that employees cannot be made redundant or put on notice of redundancy during the period in which their employer is accessing the Job Support Scheme.

Businesses can still receive the Job Retention Bonus (£1,000 paid to employers for every furloughed employee brought back to work and continuously employed from 1 November 2020 and 31 January 2021) alongside the Job Support Scheme, as long as they meet all eligibility criteria.

Full details can be found on the GOV.UK website .

Scottish Child Payments

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 13:29:24 GMT

The Scottish Government has confirmed that the Scottish Child Payment for families with a child under six will open for applications in November 2020, with first payments beginning from the end of February 2021. The payment will be £10.00 a week per child, for families in receipt of:

Universal credit
Child tax credit or working tax credit
Income-based jobseeker’s allowance
Income-related employment and support allowance
Income support
Pension credit

Payments will stop when the child reaches the age of six, but the Scottish Government says that it is committed to rolling out the benefit to families with children under 16, planned for the end of 2022.

There are no limits on the number of eligible children supported by the Scottish Child Payment, however a child can only be claimed for by one person similar to the current rules for Child Benefit and Tax Credits

The Scottish Child Payment will be administered by Social Security Scotland through an application-based process and will be paid on a four-weekly basis.

More details can be found on the Scottish Government website: https://www.gov.scot/policies/social-security/scottish-child-payment/

CHAP will publish a new article once the applications are live.

Funeral Support Payments

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 13:25:25 GMT

Just a reminder that the Scottish Government has a replacement for the Funeral Expenses Payment (England or Wales) and the Funeral Payment (Northern Ireland) allowing more people to be eligible to make a claim.

It usually will not cover the full cost of the funeral but it should help pay for some costs. It can be paid either to you or the funeral director who’s helping you plan the funeral.

Only one person can claim Funeral Support Payment for the funeral.

The full details and application form can be found at: https://www.mygov.scot/funeral-support-payment/

Access to Work scheme extended to provide extra support to disabled workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:21:09 GMT

The Access to Work scheme has been extended to provide extra support to disabled workers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Designed to protect thousands of jobs ‘in these unprecedented times’, the new extensions to the scheme will provide -

grant funding for those who need support to work from home because of COVID-19 to help pay for special equipment such as a screen reader or video remote interpreting or support worker services;
financial support with things like taxi fares for people travelling into the office where, due to their health condition, public transport isn’t a safe option at the moment; and
tailored mental health support for up to nine months for those who are anxious about returning to work and who need support.

The grant can also help pay for items or services you need, including:

adaptations to the equipment you use
special equipment or software
British Sign Language interpreters and video relay service support, lip speakers or note takers
adaptations to your vehicle so you can get to work
taxi fares to work or a support worker if you cannot use public transport - for example, if you use a wheelchair and your journey includes a train station that does not have ramps
taxi fares to work or a support worker if you cannot use public transport safely because of coronavirus (COVID-19) - for example, if you’re blind and because of this you’re unable to stay apart from other people
a support worker or job coach to help you in your workplace
personal protective equipment for your support worker, if you employ them yourself
disability awareness training for your colleagues
the cost of moving your equipment if you change location or job

You may not receive a grant if you already receive certain benefits.

The money does not have to be paid back and will not affect your other benefits.

The government says that applications for funding can be ‘fast-tracked’ for people in the clinically extremely vulnerable group.

Application information can be found on the government website here .

New benefit launched to help 16-24 year olds into work

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 13:18:54 GMT

A new benefit to support 16 to 24 year olds, or up to 25 for care leavers, into work after being unemployed is now open for applications. Job Start Payment is £250 to help with the costs of starting a new job. The payment rises to £400 if the person has a child.

Young people are among those whose job prospects have been hardest hit by the recent pandemic. The Scottish Government has introduced a range of support to help young people access job opportunities such as an additional £10 million for a range of measures to recruit and retain apprentices.

Job Start Payment aims to build upon this - making sure that the money needed to start a job isn’t something that stops a young person taking up an offer. Costs like travel, new work clothes, or childcare often have to be met before people get their first pay. The brand new Job Start Payment will help young people with these costs.

Visit mygov.scot/job-start-payment to apply online or call freephone on 0800 182 2222 to complete an application over the phone or to request a paper application form.

Universal Credit reintroduces medical evidence requirement

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 13:10:50 GMT

The Department of Work and Pensions has released an update confirming that the requirement to provide medical evidence for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) claims has been reinstated:

“As part of the Department’s response to COVID-19, the requirement to provide medical evidence to support claims to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and New Style Employment Support Allowance (NSESA) was deferred. We are now reintroducing this requirement on a phased basis. All new claims received from 10 July 2020 for ESA and NSESA must be supported by medical evidence.

For claims in existence prior to 10 July 2020, medical evidence will be introduced gradually and we will write to all of those claimants advising the date from which they are required to provide evidence in the coming weeks.”

If you have made a new claim for ESA or New Style ESA since March 2020, we would advise that you speak to your doctor to request a Statement of Fitness for Work to support your claim or you may find your benefit entitlement affected.

Struggling with credit cards or overdraft? Updated FCA Guidance

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 13:05:35 GMT

Updated FCA guidance for credit customers

The FCA has provided additional information around the support available for customers of certain credit products when they come to the end of a payment break.

Customers will have until 31 October 2020 to request a payment break or arrange an interest-free overdraft of up to £500.

For credit card, store card, catalogue credit, and personal loan customers

Coming to the end of a payment break

Lenders will get in touch with customers to explain what will happen when the payment break ends. For customers who can afford to resume payments at the end of a payment break, it is in their best interest to do so and their lender will work with them to find the best way to catch up on missed payments. However, if a customer is not yet able to restart payments, they should let their lender know. Lenders may offer a further 3-month payment break or another option depending on the customer’s circumstances.

Cancelling a customer’s credit card, store card or catalogue credit

It’s important to note that under the FCA measures, lenders are not prevented from cancelling a customer’s credit card, store card, or catalogue credit. However, if the customer depends on these products to pay for essential items and living expenses such as mortgage, rent, council tax, or food and utility bills, then they should let their lender know as soon as possible.

Impact on a customer’s credit file

When temporary measures such as payment breaks were first announced, the FCA stated that firms should not report a worsening status to customers’ credit files as a result of taking a payment break. However, it is important to highlight that this does not mean a customer’s credit file will not change during this period as files are impacted by a range of factors. Lenders should provide customers with information on the potential impact on their credit file of taking a payment break. Credit files will only be protected for the duration of the payment break, so missed payments outside of an agreed break will likely have a negative effect on a customer’s credit file.

For overdraft customers

Customers that already have an arranged overdraft

Customers that already have an arranged overdraft can ask their current account provider for up to £500 of overdraft borrowing with no interest for 3 months, and can also ask for support above this amount if they need it. Support will vary between banks. Customers can request this support by 31 October 2020, and if they have already received it, can request another 3 months.

Further Support

CHAP can offer advice and assistance on a wide range of debt issues as well as advice on benefit or housing issues. If you feel you have been affected by the above or if you need other advice regarding debt, benefits or housing, you can contact us through our live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Court of Appeal rules against Department of Work and Pensions

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 13:00:59 GMT

Court of Appeal rules that Work and Pensions Secretary acted irrationally and unlawfully by failing to adapt earned income assessment rules to account for impact on certain universal credit claimants.

In Secretary of State for Work and Pensions v Johnson & Ors [2020] EWCA Civ 778, Ms Johnson, along with three other claimants (the respondents), were all in receipt of Universal Credit and were employed and paid monthly. They received their salary on or around the last working day or last banking day of the month and there were times when salaries payable in respect of two months were paid during one Universal Credit assessment period, meaning that they would receive much less in Universal Credit and lose out on the work allowance at other times in each year.

The government has confirmed it will not be challenging the Court of Appeal’s judgment in Secretary of State for Work And Pensions v Johnson & Ors [2020] EWCA Civ 778 which found that the Secretary of State acted irrationally by failing to adapt the earned income assessment rules in Universal Credit.

The government has not yet confirmed what steps it will be taking to rectify this issue or what, if any, compensation will be available to those who have been affected but CHAP will post news on this once we know.

CHAP advise anyone who has experienced a gap in their Universal Credit entitlement due to multiple payments from employment occurring within the same assessment period to notify the DWP of the issue through their online journal. CHAP recommend that you notify DWP again, even if you have reported the issue in the past, so that you do not miss out if those affected by this issue are offered recompense for the reduction in entitlement.

CHAP can offer advice and assistance on a wide range of benefits issues. If you feel you have been affected by the above or if you need other advice regarding benefits, you can contact us through our Live chat service, which is available from 10am to 6pm Mondays and Wednesdays and 10am to 3pm on Fridays at www.chap.org.uk or you can contact us via phone on 030 0002 0002 .

Sickness and disability benefits

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 12:58:39 GMT

The DWP has suspended face to face assessments for all sickness and disability benefits for three months (from 17th March) in response to the government’s advice on dealing with the Coronavirus. This decision affects claimants of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment Support Allowance (ESA), those in receipt of the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit and some people on Universal Credit.

This temporary measure was put in place to protect vulnerable people from Covid-19. Anyone who was scheduled to have a face-to-face assessment from 17th March onwards will not need to attend and will be contacted so that alternative arrangements can be made - this could involve either telephone or paper-based assessments.

The DWP is still accepting new claims for all benefits and those who are due to have their benefit payments reviewed will continue to receive their benefits at the current rate while alternative arrangements for the reviews and reassessments are put in place.

Personal loans and credit card debt

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 12:56:58 GMT

If you are facing short-term cash flow problems because of coronavirus, there are several new measures that have been introduced to help:

If you have a personal loan, credit card, store card or catalogue credit, you can ask for a freeze on repayments for 3 months. Personal loans also include guarantor loans, logbook loans and home collected credit.
You may be able to make no (or small token) payments for 3 months
This won’t affect your credit file for the period of the payment freeze. However, interest will continue to build during this period, meaning you pay higher costs in the longer term.

If you can afford to keep up repayments, either in full or a smaller sum, then you should do so.

Your lender may offer you alternative temporary relief - for example, where a high rate of interest would build during the payment freeze period leading to longer-term financial difficulty.

You will be able to request help under these measures for a period of 3 months - you will then be able to benefit from them for a period of 3 months from when you agree them with your lender.

For further information click on the link below.

https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/coronavirus-information-personal-loans-credit-cards-overdraft s

Housing - Mortgages

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 12:50:12 GMT

The UK Government has agreed with mortgage lenders that they will offer repayment holidays of 3 months to households in financial difficulty due to Covid-19. Customers who are concerned about their current financial situation should contact their lender at the earliest possible opportunity to discuss if this is a suitable option for them.

This measure was put in place for anyone struggling as a result of the coronavirus outbreak so they will be able to take a three-month mortgage repayment holiday and all lenders are required to honour the three-month time frame. The coronavirus mortgage holiday is not automatic and won’t simply kick in for all mortgage customers. Only those who are up to date with their mortgage payments and are genuinely impacted by COVID-19 will be considered for a payment holiday. For those already in arrears or financial difficulty, lenders will consider existing payment relief or options that are available to customers under ordinary circumstance.

Housing - Eviction and Security of Tenure

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 12:44:50 GMT

The Government passed emergency legislation to protect renters in Scotland during the Covid-19 outbreak. The Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 protects tenants in Scotland from any eviction action for up to 6 months.

The eviction provisions will expire on 30 September 2020, but the Scottish Government may extend that date to 31 March 2021, or for a second and last time to 30 September 2021, if so required. The Scottish Ministers can also suspend the legislation in whole or part at any time.

More information can be found here - Coronavirus (COVID-19) Eviction and security of tenure

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