Listening cafes to give advice and support to those facing hardship

Churches Action for the Homeless (Cath) is to provide a series of listening cafes across Perth and Kinross this winter.

The service will be open to anybody who is looking for advice, practical support or just a chat regarding any financial or mental health issues they are experiencing.

The first of the cafes will begin on November 26 from 11am until 2pm in Trinity Church Hall, Pitlochry, with the initiative aiming to help anyone who is facing hardship during the costof-living crisis.

Fundraising and communications manager at Cath, Elizabeth Criado-band, said: “With the energy crisis, many more people will be struggling this year – some of whom may be hesitant to reach out.

“Under this initiative, Cath are taking services to the community.

“Energy increases are adding to the problem, especially in rural areas where more households rely on fuel oil to heat their homes.”

The cafes will include a wide number of services delivered by staff, including covering debt and money management, home energy support, mental health signposting, crisis housing support and community outreach.

Immediate support will also be available on the day.