The Money Advice and Rights (MART) offer free, expert and confidential money advice to East Renfrewshire residents and throughout 2023/24 helped their clients maximise their income through benefit assessments and claims, appealing benefit decisions and debt management.

91% of people who received advice and support from the team went on to make a successful benefits claim; and the £8m gained in total marks a £2.5m increase on the previous year.

In addition to their day-to-day support service, the team work alongside other services and have officers in place to help specific groups including adult learners, older people, parents, job seekers and veterans.

Council leader Owen O’Donnell said: “The significant amount raised for our residents illustrates what a vital service MART provides for East Renfrewshire residents. We know the cost of living crisis has had a severe impact on many of us and referrals to MART continue to increase, so it’s reassuring to see how successful the team have been in maximising people’s income.

“They have expert staff in place ready to help with all circumstances, including parents, older people, veterans, those looking for work and anyone in debt, so if you’re struggling and need some support, please get in touch with them to find out what they can do for you.”