Millions of Scots anticipate saving less during cost of living crisis, CAS finds
Millions of people in Scotland anticipate saving less during the cost of living crisis, new analysis from Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) suggests.
Analysis of the charity of polling by YouGov found that an estimated 2.3 million adults in Scotland expect to save less, with 1.7 million expecting to have to dip into their savings.
The charity is warning that people are struggling to keep up with essential spending and may find themselves at risk of debt as a result.
CAS is running the “Debt Happens” campaign, encouraging anyone worried about money and bills to seek advice as soon as possible, starting at www.cas.org.uk/debt-happens.
CAS financial health spokesperson, Jemiel Benison, said: “The cost of living crisis will have a long term impact on people’s financial resilience, as many save less or dip into their savings to meet essential everyday costs.
“That is something policymakers should be aware of in the long term, but if people are worried about money they should be seeking advice from the Citizens Advice network.
“That can be one on one in a local CAB, or through a range of online resources where people can get the advice and information they need in a way that suits them. The place to start is at www.cas.org.uk/debt-happens.”
Benison continued: “It understandable that people are cynical and think there is no help out there, but one in six people who sought advice last year from the Citizens Advice network saw a financial gain, the average value of which was over £4,200.
“The most important thing is to not let money and debt worries build up until they are overwhelming. Our advice is free, impartial and confidential. We never charge anyone for advice and we are for everyone, whether you are in work or not. Debt happens, but the Citizens Advice network can help you through it.”