Helping Young People Build Financial Confidence
John Edgar • 1 October 2026
Since 2005, CHAP's award-winning Education service has been helping young people build the practical financial, housing and independent living skills they need for life beyond school.
While the start of a new term means a return to lessons, homework and exams, it's also an important time for young people to start thinking about the life skills they'll need beyond the classroom.
That's where CHAP's Education Team comes in.
Our team is already busy delivering practical and interactive sessions in secondary schools across North Ayrshire. The sessions are specifically designed to help young people build the knowledge, confidence and skills they need to make informed decisions about money, housing and independent living.
More than just learning about money
Financial education isn't simply about knowing how to write a budget or understanding the difference between a debit and credit card.
For young people, developing financial confidence can help them make better decisions at some of the biggest transition points in their lives - leaving school, starting work, going to college or university, moving away from home and managing a household for the first time.
Our workshops explore real-life situations and encourage pupils to think about the choices and responsibilities that come with becoming more independent.
Topics include:
- Banking and managing money
- Budgeting and household finances
- Saving and planning for the future
- Understanding credit scores and APR
- Avoiding debt and financial difficulties
- Pensions and long-term financial planning
- Housing options and tenancy responsibilities
- Homelessness awareness and prevention
- Student accommodation and independent living
- Student finance, SAAS and student loans
Sessions are tailored to the age and experience of each group, making sure the information is relevant and accessible.
Preparing young people for real life
One of the things that makes our Education Service different is its focus on practical, everyday situations.
Rather than simply talking at young people, our team gets them involved.
Sessions can include games, quizzes, group discussions, practical budgeting exercises, educational films and real-life scenarios and case studies. This helps pupils explore situations they may encounter themselves and consider how they would respond.
For example, what happens when your wages need to cover rent, energy, food, travel and other household costs?
What does it really mean to take out credit?
How much does it cost to live independently?
What should you consider before signing a tenancy agreement?
And what happens if things don't go according to plan?
These are the kinds of questions that can help young people develop confidence before they are faced with these decisions for themselves.
Helping prevent youth homelessness
The topics of housing and homelessness are also a core aspect of our Education service.
Homelessness can affect anyone, and one of our aims is to challenge some of the misconceptions and stigma that still surround it.
Our homelessness prevention sessions help pupils understand some of the reasons people can become homeless, the realities of homelessness and where support is available.
We also explore housing rights and responsibilities and the importance of making informed decisions before leaving home.
The aim isn't to frighten young people - it's to give them the knowledge they need to make informed choices and know where to turn if they, or someone they know, needs help.
As one pupil told us after a previous session:
"I knew homelessness existed, but I didn't know how easy it could catch up on you."
That simple comment highlights why this vital work matters.
Building skills early
We believe financial education works best when young people have the opportunity to develop their knowledge over time.
That's why CHAP's Education Service has continued to evolve and expand.
The service began in 2005, initially focusing on homelessness awareness and prevention. Financial education was introduced in 2015, and since then the programme has continued to grow, including expanded Life Skills and financial education sessions for younger pupils.
Today, our Education Team supports pupils from S1 through to S6, with sessions designed around the different challenges and decisions young people face as they progress through secondary school.
Reaching more young people
Our work continues to grow beyond North Ayrshire too.
Alongside our long-standing programme supporting all nine North Ayrshire secondary schools, additional partnerships and funding have also allowed us to expand our delivery into secondary schools in Dumfries and Galloway.
In 2025 alone, CHAP's Education Service reached 5,617 young people.
This included:
- 1,144 pupils through PSE homelessness prevention sessions
- 899 senior pupils through Advanced Finance workshops
- 250 senior pupils through Advanced Housing workshops
- 308 sixth-year pupils through Student Accommodation workshops
Behind every number is a young person gaining knowledge that could help them make a more confident decision in the future.
Why financial education matters
Young people are growing up in a world where financial decisions can be complicated.
Credit is readily available. Online shopping makes spending incredibly easy. Housing costs are high, and understanding bills, contracts, borrowing and financial support can feel overwhelming even for adults.
Giving young people the opportunity to develop these skills before they need them can help them recognise potential problems, make informed choices and know where to look for help.
As one pupil told us:
"To start planning for the future now to set you up for success later in life."
That's exactly what we're trying to achieve.
A new school year, a new opportunity
As pupils have now settled into another year of school, our Education Team is looking forward to another busy programme of workshops, conversations and activities across North Ayrshire and beyond.
We're proud of the relationships we've built with schools and partners over the years, and we're excited about continuing to develop the service and reach even more young people.
Because financial confidence isn't something that has to wait until adulthood.
The earlier we start giving young people the knowledge, skills and confidence to make informed decisions, the better prepared they can be for whatever comes next.
For more information, please visit https://www.chap.org.uk/education or call 030 0002 0002.
CHAP was thrilled to receive the prestigious ‘Climate Action’ award at the recent Morgan Sindall Supply Chain Awards in recognition of the delivery of its Life Skills programme as part of the Morgan Sindall Just Transition initiative to help young people develop the skills and confidence they need for the future. Through practical and engaging sessions, CHAP's Education Team helps young people develop an understanding of essential money skills including budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and the real-life cost of everyday living. The programme demonstrates that effective climate action is not only about reducing carbon emissions but also about creating resilient, sustainable communities – with teaching skills that help young people to navigate future economic challenges while fostering behaviours that support more sustainable lifestyles. Elizabeth Halliday, Head of Responsible Business at Morgan Sindall Construction in Scotland, said: “ CHAP’s Life Skills programme is a brilliant example of climate action and social action going hand in hand; and reflects exactly what we hoped to achieve when we launched our Just Transition initiative. By giving young people the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions, the programme is helping to build stronger, more resilient communities and create a fairer, more inclusive transition to a low-carbon future. “At Morgan Sindall Construction, we’re proud to play a part in this through our supply chain partnership. This award is thoroughly deserved recognition of the positive difference CHAP is making to young people across Dumfries & Galloway .” CHAP is grateful for the strong relationship it has developed with Morgan Sindall Construction over the last year and the support the company has provided to its education and wider community work. The partnership also has an important local connection - with Morgan Sindall Construction and SCAPE Scotland currently delivering the new Ardrossan Community Campus. The photo above shows Elizabeth Halliday presenting the award to Robin Ballantyne, Head of Education, alongside our CEO, Debbie Alexander. Robin said: " We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this award and incredibly proud that our team's work has been recognised in this way. Financial education is such an important part of preparing young people for a future beyond the classroom, and we know that giving pupils the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions can help build greater financial resilience later in life. We’re particularly pleased that the award highlights the wider social impact of our work and we’re extremely grateful to Morgan Sindall for their continued support ." In addition to providing free advice and support for housing, debt, and welfare issues, CHAP’s education programme equips young people across Ayrshire and beyond with practical financial, housing and independent living skills that support safer, more confident transitions into adult life. For more information about our Life Skills programme, please visit the Education page.
NOTE: Applications are now closed for this position Help shape how CHAP works and volunteers thrive! Operations & Volunteering Lead Salary: £26,000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week Location: Based in Ardrossan (occasional travel to other CHAP locations may be required) Contract: Fixed term (12 months) Closing Date: Friday 25 th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 9th October Are you organised, people-focused and full of ideas about how to make things work better? CHAP is looking for an Operations and Volunteering Lead to strengthen our day-to-day operations and help us build an inclusive and rewarding volunteering programme. This is a new role with plenty of scope to make it your own. You will work across the organisation, leading our administrative function, supporting the team and improving the systems and processes that help our services run smoothly. You will also take the lead in developing volunteering at CHAP. From creating meaningful roles and welcoming new volunteers to coordinating training, support and recognition, you will help shape a positive experience for everyone who gives their time to support our work. About CHAP CHAP provides free, independent advice and advocacy across Ayrshire. We support people with housing, welfare rights, debt and related issues, helping them understand their rights, resolve problems and improve their circumstances. By helping our operations run effectively and developing volunteering across CHAP, you will play an important part in strengthening the services we provide to local people. CHAP is a Living Wage, Living Hours and Equal Opportunities employer. What you'll be doing You will: Provide day-to-day leadership and support to our administrative team; help ensure our telephone, reception, referral and appointment arrangements work effectively; identify practical ways to improve systems, processes and workflows; lead or support projects that strengthen how we work; coordinate volunteer recruitment, induction, training and ongoing support; and help create an inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and able to contribute. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. Could this be you? You may already work in operations, office coordination, team support, recruitment, community work or volunteering. You do not need to have held this exact job title before . We would love to hear from you if you: enjoy bringing structure to busy environments; can coordinate people, workloads and projects; provide supportive and confident day-to-day leadership; communicate clearly and build positive relationships; are comfortable using standard IT systems; can spot where something could work better and help make it happen; and are enthusiastic about creating a positive experience for staff and volunteers. Previous experience of coordinating volunteers would be helpful, but it is not essential. We're interested in your transferable skills, your approach and the contribution you could make. How to apply For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role 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 . Operations and Volunteering Lead Job Description Closing Date: Friday 25th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 9th October This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
NOTE: Applications are now closed for this position Do you want to make a real difference to people's lives? Information & Advice Officer Salary: £25,000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week Location: Based in Ardrossan (with travel required across Ayrshire) Contract: Fixed term (12 months) Closing Date: Friday 25 th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 2 nd October CHAP is looking for an Information & Advice Officer to join our growing team and help support people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Every day, we work alongside individuals and families experiencing housing difficulties, financial hardship, debt problems and welfare rights issues. We provide free, independent advice, advocacy and representation, helping people understand their rights, access support and overcome barriers. In 2025 alone, CHAP secured over £4.2 million in financial gains for people across Ayrshire. We are proud of the difference we make, but we know there is more to do. Demand for our services continues to grow, with increasing numbers of people seeking support with housing, debt and welfare rights issues. These new posts will help us reach more people, earlier, and provide the support they need before problems reach crisis point. About CHAP CHAP is an independent charity providing specialist housing, welfare rights and debt advice throughout Ayrshire. As the only organisation in Ayrshire accredited to deliver Scottish National Standards Type III advice across all three areas, we provide practical support to people facing a wide range of challenges. We help people understand their options, navigate complex systems and access the support they need. We exist to provide hope and to stand alongside our clients as they deal with some of life's most difficult circumstances. What you'll be doing This role involves working directly with individuals and families experiencing a range of housing, welfare rights, and financial issues. You will: Provide information, advice and advocacy to clients. Support people to understand their rights, options and available support. Work with clients to identify solutions and achieve positive outcomes. Represent and negotiate on behalf of clients where appropriate. Manage a varied caseload and maintain accurate case records. Work closely with partner organisations to ensure clients receive the support they need. Contribute to the delivery of a high-quality advice and advocacy service. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. Could this be you? We are looking for people who share our commitment to helping others and who believe everyone deserves access to high-quality advice and support. You may already have experience in advice work, advocacy, housing, welfare rights, debt advice, employability, social work, community development, support work or similar fields. Most importantly, you will be someone who: Has experience supporting people facing difficult circumstances. Can build positive relationships and communicate effectively with a wide range of people. Is organised, reliable and able to manage a varied workload. Has a genuine desire to help others. Is willing to learn and develop new skills. Can work independently and as part of a supportive team. Experience of welfare rights, debt advice, housing advice or advocacy work would be advantageous. However, we are committed to supporting the successful candidates through training, supervision and professional development. In return we offer The opportunity to make a genuine difference in people's lives A supportive and experienced team environment Ongoing training, supervision and professional development. The opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills within an accredited advice service. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential as travel throughout Ayrshire will be required. How to apply For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role 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 Officer Job Description Closing Date: Friday 25th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 2nd October This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Buy Now, Pay Later can make an important purchase more manageable. But when several repayments start to add up, it can also become difficult to keep on top of your finances. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) has become a familiar option to us when shopping online. Rather than paying the full price immediately, customers can spread the cost over a number of instalments, often without paying interest if payments are made on time. For someone who knows they can comfortably afford the repayments, it can be a useful way of managing the cost of a purchase. But for others, particularly when several agreements are taken out at the same time, BNPL can easily contribute to financial difficulties - and there's now growing evidence of just how significant that problem can be. A six-fold increase in BNPL debt Figures released by Money Advice Trust , the charity behind National Debtline , have highlighted a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking help with Buy Now, Pay Later debt. National Debtline says the proportion of people seeking its support who have BNPL debt has increased six-fold, from 3% in 2021 to 18% in 2026. The average BNPL debt among these clients is now £1,029. The figures were released as new regulations came into force on 15 July 2026, bringing most BNPL provided by third-party lenders under the regulation of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for the first time. Money Advice Trust says the rise in people struggling with BNPL debt demonstrates why the new protections are needed. What has changed? Before 15th July 2026, qualifying BNPL agreements were generally outside FCA regulation. Providers did not have to follow the same regulatory requirements that apply to most other forms of consumer credit. That has now changed. Under the new rules, qualifying BNPL lenders must: Carry out proportionate affordability checks before providing credit. Give customers clearer information about what they are borrowing. Explain when repayments are due and how much they will be. Explain what happens if a payment is missed. Provide appropriate support if someone is struggling with repayments - including directing them towards free debt advice providers (such as CHAP) where appropriate. Give customers access to the Financial Ombudsman Service if they have a complaint that cannot be resolved with the lender. These are important changes and mean that people using qualifying BNPL products now have protections that were not previously available. Is BNPL a bad thing? We're not suggesting that everyone who uses Buy Now, Pay Later is making an irresponsible financial decision. Sometimes, life simply doesn't wait. An example could be that a person's washing machine breaks unexpectedly. They may have children, a limited income and no savings readily available to replace it. Waiting several weeks to save up the full amount may simply not be practical. If a BNPL arrangement allows the person to spread the cost and they can comfortably afford the repayments, it can provide a way to deal with an unexpected expense without having to find the whole amount immediately. The same could apply to other essential household items or unexpected costs. Using BNPL doesn't automatically mean they're getting into debt trouble. The important question is whether the repayments are affordable alongside everything else they need to pay. There's no shame in needing to borrow money when an unexpected expense comes along. What matters is understanding what they're committing to and recognising when those commitments are becoming difficult to manage. BNPL is still borrowing Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that Buy Now, Pay Later is still credit. The fact that a purchase is split into four payments doesn't change the amount you ultimately have to pay. And because the individual payments can look relatively small, it can be surprisingly easy to lose sight of the total amount being borrowed. For example: £25 here. £30 there. £40 next month. Each payment might seem manageable on its own, but if several purchases are being repaid at the same time, you could suddenly have £100 or more coming out of your bank account each month - alongside your rent or mortgage, energy bills, Council Tax, food, travel and everything else your household needs to pay for. The issue isn't necessarily using BNPL - it's taking on repayments that you can no longer comfortably afford. When small payments become a big problem The latest figures from National Debtline provide an important reminder that financial difficulty isn't necessarily about someone making one large purchase they can't afford. Money Advice Trust says that people struggling with BNPL debt supported by National Debtline often face wider challenges too. Almost two-thirds (63%) have disclosed an additional vulnerability, while younger consumers are disproportionately represented among those seeking help. National Debtline has also reported seeing people using BNPL for everyday essentials, including food, energy bills and household basics. This can be an important warning sign . If you are regularly using credit because you don't have enough money to cover essential household costs, taking on more borrowing could make an already difficult situation harder to manage. Before clicking on the "Buy Now, Pay Later" option, it's worth asking yourself a few simple questions: Can I comfortably afford every repayment? Think about the entire repayment period, not just the first instalment. Do I already have other BNPL agreements? Check your bank account and existing commitments. Several small agreements can quickly add up. Will the repayments still be affordable after I've paid my essential household costs? Consider rent or mortgage payments, energy bills, Council Tax, food, travel and other regular expenses. Am I using BNPL for essentials? There is nothing inherently wrong with borrowing to deal with an unexpected essential expense. However, if you are regularly relying on credit to pay for food, energy or other household necessities, it could be a sign that you need some help with your overall finances. What would happen if my circumstances changed? An unexpected bill, reduction in hours at work or a change in income could make previously manageable repayments much more difficult. Regulation is good news - but BNPL still carries financial risk The introduction of FCA regulation is an important step forward for consumers. It means qualifying BNPL lenders must take greater responsibility for making sure borrowing is affordable, provide clearer information and offer support when customers experience financial difficulty - but regulation doesn't make BNPL risk-free. As the Government has also pointed out, BNPL can be a useful way to manage spending, but it is still a form of borrowing and should always be carefully considered. The safest approach is to think of BNPL in much the same way you would think about any other form of credit. It's not free money. It's a commitment to repay. How CHAP can help CHAP provides free, confidential and independent Money Advice to people across Ayrshire experiencing debt and financial difficulties. Our service is fully accredited, and CHAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our experienced Money Advisers can look at your circumstances as a whole, help you understand your options and support you in dealing with your debts. There is no need to feel embarrassed or wait until you've reached crisis point. Sometimes, the hardest part is simply admitting that things are becoming difficult. Getting the right advice early can make a real difference . If you're struggling with BNPL, debt or household bills, get in touch with CHAP to find out how we can help. Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 to arrange an appointment .
Losing someone close to you is one of life's most difficult experiences. At a time when you're grieving, it can be hard to know what needs to be done and where to turn for help. While everyone's circumstances are different, there are some common practical steps that most families will need to take. This guide explains the basics and highlights some of the support available in Scotland. Registering the death In Scotland, most deaths must be registered within eight days. Usually, the hospital, GP or funeral director will explain what you need to do and provide the paperwork required. Once the death has been registered, you'll receive the documents needed to arrange a funeral and begin dealing with the person's affairs. Arranging the funeral Many people choose to use a funeral director, although this isn't a legal requirement. If you're arranging a funeral, it's worth checking whether the person who has died had: a prepaid funeral plan life insurance savings set aside for funeral costs wishes recorded in a will Funeral costs can be significant, so it's worthwhile comparing different companies. Don't feel embarrassed about asking for written estimates or discussing costs beforehand - including any additional extras. Help with funeral costs If you're on a low income or receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, you may be able to apply for Funeral Support Payment through Social Security Scotland. This is a contribution towards funeral expenses and can help with burial or cremation costs, travel and some other associated expenses, although it won't usually cover the full cost of a funeral. Eligibility depends on your circumstances. More information: https://www.socialsecurity.gov.scot/funeral-support-payment Using the Tell Us Once service One of the most helpful services available is Tell Us Once . With your permission, this free service notifies several government departments and local authority services at the same time, rather than contacting each organisation separately. It can inform organisations such as: HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) the Passport Office the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) your local council (for services such as Council Tax, Housing Benefit and Blue Badges) You'll usually be told how to access the service when you meet with a Registrar to register the death, if it's available for your circumstances. Managing household bills and services As well as notifying government departments, you'll usually need to contact organisations that provided services to the person who has died. This may include: gas and electricity suppliers water services (where applicable) telephone and broadband providers TV Licence and subscription services home or contents insurance providers Many larger companies now have dedicated bereavement teams who can guide you through closing or transferring an account. Before cancelling services, consider whether someone else will continue living in the property, as some accounts may simply need to be transferred into another person's name. https://www.scottishpower.co.uk/support-centre/bereavement https://www.scottishgas.co.uk/bereavement Bank accounts and finances Banks and building societies should also be informed as soon as possible. They will explain the process for closing or transferring accounts and, where necessary, dealing with the person's estate. If the person who died held a joint account, the surviving account holder can often continue using it, although the bank will still need to be notified. For sole accounts, the bank will advise what documentation is required before funds can be released or the account closed, but it would usually be the death certificate and proof of identification. If you're unsure about managing someone's finances after they have died, it's always worth seeking advice before making any financial decisions. Digital accounts and online services These days, many parts of our lives are managed online, so it's easy to overlook digital accounts when someone dies. As well as cancelling subscriptions or updating account details, you may need to consider dealing with the persons: email accounts mobile phone contracts social media profiles online shopping accounts streaming services cloud storage or photo libraries Some online services allow accounts to be closed, memorialised or transferred, although each company has its own process and may ask for a copy of the death certificate. If you're acting on behalf of the person's estate, it's worth making a list of any online accounts you know about so that nothing is missed. This can also help prevent ongoing subscription payments or unnecessary charges. What happens to a tenancy? If the person who died rented their home, it's important to contact the landlord as soon as possible. Depending on the type of tenancy and who lived in the property, different options may be available. In some situations: a husband, wife, civil partner or partner may have succession rights another family member living in the property may qualify to take over the tenancy the tenancy may need to be ended Every situation is different, so it's important to seek advice before making decisions or handing back the keys. At CHAP, our Housing Advisers can explain your options, help you understand your rights and support you if you're worried about keeping your home. If the person lived in a council or housing association home If the person who died rented their home from the council or a housing association, it's important to contact the landlord as soon as possible. Once the tenancy has ended, the property will usually need to be cleared and returned in line with the tenancy agreement. This can feel like a daunting task, particularly while you're grieving, but many landlords understand the circumstances and may be able to discuss realistic timescales or offer practical guidance. If furniture or belongings remain, speak to the landlord before arranging a house clearance, as there may be procedures to follow. Returning the property promptly also helps ensure the home can be prepared for another person or family who may be waiting for accommodation. If you're unsure about your responsibilities or believe someone may have the right to succeed to the tenancy, seek advice before emptying or handing back the property. Benefits and finances A bereavement often changes household finances. Some benefits will stop, while others may start or increase. You may become entitled to financial support that wasn't available before. It's important to report changes promptly and have your entitlement checked. This can help ensure you're receiving everything you're entitled to and avoid any overpayments. CHAP's Welfare Rights Advisers can carry out a free benefits check and help you make any new claims. Dealing with debts If the person who died had debts, family members are not usually personally responsible for paying them simply because they are related. Debts are normally dealt with as part of administering the person's estate. If you're unsure what this means, or you're receiving letters from creditors, seek advice before making payments. If you're struggling financially following a bereavement, CHAP's Money Advisers can also help you manage your own finances and explore your options. Useful documents to keep handy As you begin dealing with practical matters, it can help to gather important documents in one place. Depending on the circumstances, you may need: the death certificate (it's often useful to purchase several certified copies) the person's National Insurance number NHS number (if known) pension and benefits information bank and building society details utility account numbers tenancy agreement or mortgage documents the person's will (if one exists) details of any life insurance policies or prepaid funeral plans Having these documents readily available can make it easier when speaking to organisations or completing forms. Looking after yourself Grief affects everyone differently. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and there is no timetable for recovery. While there are practical matters that need attention, it's equally important to look after yourself. Don't feel you have to cope alone. Lean on family and friends where you can, accept offers of help, and remember that it's okay to ask for support. Organisations that can help If you need additional support, the following organisations can provide practical advice or emotional help: Cruse Scotland – Bereavement support, information and counselling. https://www.crusescotland.org.uk Breathing Space – Confidential support if you're feeling low or overwhelmed. https://www.breathingspace.scot/how-we-can-help/need-to-talk Samaritans – Available 24 hours a day if you're experiencing emotional distress. https://www.samaritans.org/samaritans-in-scotland We're here to help Bereavement brings enough emotional challenges without having to navigate complicated paperwork, housing issues or financial worries on your own. If losing someone has affected your housing, income or finances, CHAP is here to help. Our advisers provide free, confidential and independent advice across Ayrshire, helping people understand their options and access the support they're entitled to. Whether you have questions about a tenancy, need a benefits check, are worried about debt, or simply aren't sure where to start, we're here to listen and help you find the right way forward. You don't have to face it alone. Call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002
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CHAP was thrilled to receive the prestigious ‘Climate Action’ award at the recent Morgan Sindall Supply Chain Awards in recognition of the delivery of its Life Skills programme as part of the Morgan Sindall Just Transition initiative to help young people develop the skills and confidence they need for the future. Through practical and engaging sessions, CHAP's Education Team helps young people develop an understanding of essential money skills including budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and the real-life cost of everyday living. The programme demonstrates that effective climate action is not only about reducing carbon emissions but also about creating resilient, sustainable communities – with teaching skills that help young people to navigate future economic challenges while fostering behaviours that support more sustainable lifestyles. Elizabeth Halliday, Head of Responsible Business at Morgan Sindall Construction in Scotland, said: “ CHAP’s Life Skills programme is a brilliant example of climate action and social action going hand in hand; and reflects exactly what we hoped to achieve when we launched our Just Transition initiative. By giving young people the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions, the programme is helping to build stronger, more resilient communities and create a fairer, more inclusive transition to a low-carbon future. “At Morgan Sindall Construction, we’re proud to play a part in this through our supply chain partnership. This award is thoroughly deserved recognition of the positive difference CHAP is making to young people across Dumfries & Galloway .” CHAP is grateful for the strong relationship it has developed with Morgan Sindall Construction over the last year and the support the company has provided to its education and wider community work. The partnership also has an important local connection - with Morgan Sindall Construction and SCAPE Scotland currently delivering the new Ardrossan Community Campus. The photo above shows Elizabeth Halliday presenting the award to Robin Ballantyne, Head of Education, alongside our CEO, Debbie Alexander. Robin said: " We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this award and incredibly proud that our team's work has been recognised in this way. Financial education is such an important part of preparing young people for a future beyond the classroom, and we know that giving pupils the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions can help build greater financial resilience later in life. We’re particularly pleased that the award highlights the wider social impact of our work and we’re extremely grateful to Morgan Sindall for their continued support ." In addition to providing free advice and support for housing, debt, and welfare issues, CHAP’s education programme equips young people across Ayrshire and beyond with practical financial, housing and independent living skills that support safer, more confident transitions into adult life. For more information about our Life Skills programme, please visit the Education page.
NOTE: Applications are now closed for this position Help shape how CHAP works and volunteers thrive! Operations & Volunteering Lead Salary: £26,000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week Location: Based in Ardrossan (occasional travel to other CHAP locations may be required) Contract: Fixed term (12 months) Closing Date: Friday 25 th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 9th October Are you organised, people-focused and full of ideas about how to make things work better? CHAP is looking for an Operations and Volunteering Lead to strengthen our day-to-day operations and help us build an inclusive and rewarding volunteering programme. This is a new role with plenty of scope to make it your own. You will work across the organisation, leading our administrative function, supporting the team and improving the systems and processes that help our services run smoothly. You will also take the lead in developing volunteering at CHAP. From creating meaningful roles and welcoming new volunteers to coordinating training, support and recognition, you will help shape a positive experience for everyone who gives their time to support our work. About CHAP CHAP provides free, independent advice and advocacy across Ayrshire. We support people with housing, welfare rights, debt and related issues, helping them understand their rights, resolve problems and improve their circumstances. By helping our operations run effectively and developing volunteering across CHAP, you will play an important part in strengthening the services we provide to local people. CHAP is a Living Wage, Living Hours and Equal Opportunities employer. What you'll be doing You will: Provide day-to-day leadership and support to our administrative team; help ensure our telephone, reception, referral and appointment arrangements work effectively; identify practical ways to improve systems, processes and workflows; lead or support projects that strengthen how we work; coordinate volunteer recruitment, induction, training and ongoing support; and help create an inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and able to contribute. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. Could this be you? You may already work in operations, office coordination, team support, recruitment, community work or volunteering. You do not need to have held this exact job title before . We would love to hear from you if you: enjoy bringing structure to busy environments; can coordinate people, workloads and projects; provide supportive and confident day-to-day leadership; communicate clearly and build positive relationships; are comfortable using standard IT systems; can spot where something could work better and help make it happen; and are enthusiastic about creating a positive experience for staff and volunteers. Previous experience of coordinating volunteers would be helpful, but it is not essential. We're interested in your transferable skills, your approach and the contribution you could make. How to apply For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role 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 . Operations and Volunteering Lead Job Description Closing Date: Friday 25th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 9th October This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
NOTE: Applications are now closed for this position Do you want to make a real difference to people's lives? Information & Advice Officer Salary: £25,000 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week Location: Based in Ardrossan (with travel required across Ayrshire) Contract: Fixed term (12 months) Closing Date: Friday 25 th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 2 nd October CHAP is looking for an Information & Advice Officer to join our growing team and help support people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Every day, we work alongside individuals and families experiencing housing difficulties, financial hardship, debt problems and welfare rights issues. We provide free, independent advice, advocacy and representation, helping people understand their rights, access support and overcome barriers. In 2025 alone, CHAP secured over £4.2 million in financial gains for people across Ayrshire. We are proud of the difference we make, but we know there is more to do. Demand for our services continues to grow, with increasing numbers of people seeking support with housing, debt and welfare rights issues. These new posts will help us reach more people, earlier, and provide the support they need before problems reach crisis point. About CHAP CHAP is an independent charity providing specialist housing, welfare rights and debt advice throughout Ayrshire. As the only organisation in Ayrshire accredited to deliver Scottish National Standards Type III advice across all three areas, we provide practical support to people facing a wide range of challenges. We help people understand their options, navigate complex systems and access the support they need. We exist to provide hope and to stand alongside our clients as they deal with some of life's most difficult circumstances. What you'll be doing This role involves working directly with individuals and families experiencing a range of housing, welfare rights, and financial issues. You will: Provide information, advice and advocacy to clients. Support people to understand their rights, options and available support. Work with clients to identify solutions and achieve positive outcomes. Represent and negotiate on behalf of clients where appropriate. Manage a varied caseload and maintain accurate case records. Work closely with partner organisations to ensure clients receive the support they need. Contribute to the delivery of a high-quality advice and advocacy service. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. Could this be you? We are looking for people who share our commitment to helping others and who believe everyone deserves access to high-quality advice and support. You may already have experience in advice work, advocacy, housing, welfare rights, debt advice, employability, social work, community development, support work or similar fields. Most importantly, you will be someone who: Has experience supporting people facing difficult circumstances. Can build positive relationships and communicate effectively with a wide range of people. Is organised, reliable and able to manage a varied workload. Has a genuine desire to help others. Is willing to learn and develop new skills. Can work independently and as part of a supportive team. Experience of welfare rights, debt advice, housing advice or advocacy work would be advantageous. However, we are committed to supporting the successful candidates through training, supervision and professional development. In return we offer The opportunity to make a genuine difference in people's lives A supportive and experienced team environment Ongoing training, supervision and professional development. The opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills within an accredited advice service. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential as travel throughout Ayrshire will be required. How to apply For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role 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 Officer Job Description Closing Date: Friday 25th September at 12 noon Interviews: Friday 2nd October This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
