Highland Council-funded advice services assist 22,000 customers
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MORE than 22,000 customers were assisted by Highland Council’s welfare support team and Citizens Advice last year.
During 2018/19, people sought support with welfare, debt and housing issues.
A total of 3372 customers were helped by the welfare support team and 18,777 clients were assisted by Citizens Advice.
Financial gains for customers exceeded £22.5 million, representing a £14.07 return for every £1 allocated in advice and information services by the council.
A total of £11.2 million of debt (including £2.4 million relating to mortgage/other secured loans) was presented to Citizens Advice which represents a 56 per cent decrease compared to 2016/17.
Citizens Advice supported 2625 customers seeking housing advice for a variety of reasons including arrears, repairs and antisocial behaviour.
Furthermore, 2018/19 saw a 13 per cent increase in demand for complex advice from customers accessing benefit and money advice services compared to 2017/18.
Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “The council’s funding of advice continues to present value for money and makes a key contribution to the council’s commitment to reduce poverty and inequalities for the people of the Highlands.
"The effectiveness of the services being delivered has positive impacts on customers’ overall health and wellbeing. It is also important to recognise the wider social and economic benefits that such services provide for the local economy.
“Advice and information services are proven to be a critical approach in alleviating poverty and are vital to the health and wellbeing of many households across the Highlands, all with varying needs of support. The council’s commitment to these services aligns with its legal duty to provide advice and information services for the general population and for specified groups.”
People can contact the council’s welfare support team on 0800 090 1040.
