The grant, which is distributed by Angus Council, is set to help approximately 350 low-income households to overcome financial crisis and support wellbeing over the winter months.

On receiving the funds, Hillcrest Futures’ business development and improvements manager, Chris Robb, commented: “Winter can be an extremely challenging time for people at the best of times, but with many facing increasing worries due to rapidly increasing living costs, there is a stark choice of heating their homes or putting food on the table.

“The funds will help marginalised groups who are supported by Hillcrest Futures in Angus. This includes older people who receive home care support, individuals we support with their mental health, people with physical and learning disabilities, people with substance dependencies, and young people supported by our outreach service.”

Joy Dunlop, Hillcrest Futures’ managing director, continued: “One size does not fit all when it comes to delivering meaningful support. We therefore work closely with the people who use our services to get it right for them and ensure what we provide is responsive to their changing needs, wishes and pressures - this includes providing food vouchers, clothing and mobile phone data top-ups, as well as financial advice during these particularly challenging times.

“We understand the significant negative impact financial worries can have on people’s wellbeing and mental health. To help alleviate this we have extended our telephone contact with people, and also facilitate online activities to combat social isolation.”