Jackie Baillie and Fiona Howard are jointly hosting a special event in Helensburgh in order to help support residents through the cost of living crisis.

The Dumbarton constituency MSP and Helensburgh Central Councillor will bring together a wide range of support agencies on Thursday, April 13th. They will provide advice to members of the community on how to manage household funds and give information on the help which is available to those struggling.

The event will take place at Helensburgh Parish Church Hall’s Main Hall between 2pm and 4pm where help will be on hand to those attending. Everyone is welcome along and tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

The support agencies in attendance include:

• Advice Direct Scotland
• Department for Work and Pensions
• Energy Action Scotland
• Grey Matters
• RBS
• Social Security Scotland
• ALI Energy
• Scottish Power
• Scottish Gas
• Warmworks
• Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau
• Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank

The aim of the event is to make sure that people know where to turn if they are struggling to pay their bills and to pick up handy tips on how to manage household budgets.

Jackie Baillie said: “It is difficult to escape news about rising bills whether that be food or fuel. It is a really worrying time for everyone in our communities. Sadly the UK government has not done enough to reduce the burden on people through their recent budget. Equally, the Scottish Government are not using the powers they have to assist.

“Throughout this past year, I have been contacted by a range of people worried about how they can afford their bills. From businesses to families and elderly people on a fixed income, the current cost of living crisis is affecting everyone.

“There is help available within our communities and I am grateful to the organisations who have already signed up to be a part of these events, to help people. I hope many people from the Helensburgh community can make it along to pick up some useful advice.”

Fiona Howard said: “I am pleased to be able to help people out where possible and look forward to welcoming constituents along on the day when there will be a range of people there to provide advice.

“Please don’t struggle in silence if you are worried. There is help available and the organisations who will be there on the day will talk you through the support they can provide.”