If you are worried about debt then you are not alone. Most of us find ourselves stretched financially from time to time and usually things get back to normal. Occasionally though, bills can mount up, arrears can increase and debts can easily get out of control. The best thing to do is seek help and talk things through.

Our Universal Credit Support team is here to help with advice and practical solutions. Call the team on 01563 503280 or email universalcredit@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

East Ayrshire Money is a service which can help by putting you in touch with the right local organisation that can best provide the advice, information and support that you need. Call 0800 389 7750 or email info@eamoney.co.uk.

Citizens Advice is Scotland’s largest independent advice network and is free, confidential, impartial and available to anyone. Call 01563 553479 or 01290 429500.

Social Security Scotland can help apply for targeted benefits to help alleviate poverty such as Best Start, Crisis, Young Carer and Funeral Support. Contact them on 0800 182 2222 for advice.

Money Advice Scotland provides signposting to free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems. Call 0800 731 4722 during office hours.

Step Change provide free, expert debt advice, no matter how large or small your debt problem is. Call 0800 138 1111 Monday – Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 8am – 4pm.