Over 100 people visited Glenboig Life Centre to receive information and advice from a range of stallholders including the council’s tackling poverty team, Routes to Work, SSPCA Pet Aid project, Scottish Fire and Rescue and Social Security Scotland.

North Lanarkshire Council’s community partnership team helped support the event which was organised by Glenboig Development Trust and North Lanarkshire Carers Together on Wednesday 29 March.

Community groups and residents joined local school pupils at the event with everyone enjoying access to free hot drinks, sandwiches and home baking. All attendees were also given a soup pack and ingredients provided by the council, with a recipe included to help promote healthier eating on a limited budget.

Provost Kenneth Duffy joined Councillor Geraldine Woods, convener of wellbeing and tackling poverty, at the event as they heard first-hand what support is in place for people worried about rising costs.

Provost Duffy said: “It was heartening to see so many people and organisations coming together to support each other during these challenging times. The cost-of-living crisis has affected many families in our area, and it’s vital we work together to provide support and advice to those who need it most. I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work in organising this support session.”

Councillor Woods added: “This event highlighted the importance of community partnership and how working together can have a positive impact for individuals and families who may be experiencing financial hardship.

“As a council and working with a range of partners and community groups, we are committed to continuing to tackle poverty, support employment opportunities and to promote healthier living for everyone in our communities.”