Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Service rolled out to help people with debt problems
A NEW scheme to provide free financial help to people having problems with debt, heating their homes or saving for their future has been launched.
Dundee City Council has been awarded £2.97 million by the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund to deliver the project, which has been called Dundee Money Action.
Councillor Willie Sawers, depute convener of the policy and resources committee, said: “Dundee Money Action is a really important project that aims to improve people’s wellbeing by enabling them to become more financially independent and confident about tackling their financial problems.
“Everyone who uses this service will get help to address their financial situation, not just in the short term, but for as long as they need it.
“As well as long-term help, we are looking to make sure that those who are facing financial exclusion from mainstream services will get help to access those services and do not have to suffer because of their financial situation.”
The city council has joined with Brooksbank Centre, Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau, SCARF, Shelter Scotland, The Wise Group and Discovery Credit Union to provide a partnership that works together to deliver the project, which was launched at Menzieshill Community Centre.
Maureen McGinn, chairwoman of the Big Lottery Fund Scotland, said: “The Dundee Money Action service will help people who are facing disadvantage to improve their money management skills and lower their debt burden, which often acts as a barrier to social inclusion.”
Anyone wanting more information should visit dundeemoneyaction.org.