Moray Food Plus launches service to help locals struggling with finances
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A NEW service helping people who are struggling with their finances has been launched by Moray Food Plus.
The charity has launched its Money Support Advice Service, with Money Advice Support Worker Wendy Laing aiming to help those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The service aims to help people with a variety of financial worries. Full benefit checks will be available, help completing benefit forms can be provided and budgeting advice can be given.
Moray Food Plus' service, which is free and confidential, will also direct people towards other local services.
Wendy Laing said that every person she has spoken to so far has discovered that they are entitled to a benefit they are not currently in receipt of.
"The cost-of-living crisis is affecting more people than ever before and a large number of people are not claiming all the benefits they are entitled to," she said.
"Everyone I have had in so far had an entitlement that they weren't claiming.
"Benefits can be complex and can be a bit of a minefield for people, but we are here to help."
Mrs Laing has 19 years of experience working with people seeking benefits.
She said that a number of people who work are using the service, and that it is very much open to people who are in employment.
"A huge number of working people are using the service," she explained.
"About 40 per cent of people who have come in so far have either been in work or have come from a household where someone works."
Mairi McCallum, project manager at Moray Food Plus, said that the charity's referrals are up 25 per cent more this year on 2022.
The timing of the Moray Support Advice Service is, therefore, good – but it has been in the works for a while.
"With the cost-of-living crisis, people are turning to the food bank more and more," she said.
"It's really important that we can work with people with a person-centred approach.
"We want to be a friendly face that can help people or point them in the right direction."
To get in touch with Money Advice Support Worker Wendy, people should first contact Moray Food Plus on 01343 208293.
Alternatively, the charity is reachable on social media and via email at admin@morayfoodplus.org.uk
