Money clinic in Govanhill to prepare for introduction of universal credit

Govan Law Centre's and G-Heat Glasgow will offer money skills for residents at a free money, debt and energy advice clinic in Govanhill Neighbourhood Centre to tackle problems likely to be caused by the full roll-out of universal credit, in Glasgow, just before Christmas.

Govan Law Centre will focus their advice on universal credit, regular savings, avoiding credit for everyday spending and debt advice.

GHEAT will be offering advice on cold weather payments, winter fuel payments, warm home discounts and other energy-related issues. The two organisations hope to limit the damage of introducing the Universal Credit in Glasgow, which is scheduled to be completed by 5 December 2018.

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Many people in Glasgow already struggle financially, often unable to manage everyday expenditure. The role out of universal credit is causing even more problems including rent arrears, energy bills arrears, more debt, and even homelessness. Govan Law Centre is already dealing many difficult cases.

Govan Law Centre’s team co-ordinator and senior caseworker Wendy Malloy said: “We are very worried about the introduction of universal credit. It will create more homelessness in the city. Govan Law Centre is committed to helping people to keep their tenancies, so they are not made homeless. It’s crucial tenants can manage their money so they can deal with an unexpected bill and not get into debt.

“Universal credit is putting tenants at risk of homelessness and we are targeting our help.

“Our Talk Money initiative offers practical support and solutions. Our experienced and knowledgeable advisors will provide vital help to address tenants money worries.”

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Marion Tominey, GHEAT team leader said: “GHEAT offers impartial and energy-related support to households within Glasgow. Our service involves the provision of tailored, in-depth support for households in fuel poor areas and drives behavioural change to enable customers to take control of their energy usage and reduce their bills on a sustainable basis.”

The event is part of the UK wide Talk Money Week and will be held at Govanhill Neighbourhood Centre on 6 Daisy Street, Govanhill, on Friday, Novembe r16, between 11am and 3pm.