The open session brought together a range of local and community-based support and advice agencies as well as local organisations based in north Glasgow.

Saracen House was a buzz of activity with the room full of those attending speaking with local and community-based organisations about benefits, finances, questions about energy and more, with more than 80 attending over the course of the day.

Paula Mailey, community development team leader, offered her thanks to those who took part saying: “We recognise the challenges posed by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the need for resources and advice to be readily available. We’ve been working closely throughout the crisis with our community partners to support North Glasgow and were delighted to be see so many in attendance on the day.”

The October event was the latest Information and Advice Day, building on the back of previous successful events earlier in 2023 and late 2022. A wide range of local and community advice and support organisations including Social Security Scotland, Home Energy Scotland, The Wise Group, Jobs & Business Glasgow, Glasgow Baby Food Bank, GEMAP, We Are With You, Springburn Park Men’s Shed, Glasgow Girls Club and ng homes’ Community Development team attended.

ng homes chairperson Catherine Rossine thanked those who attended saying: “We were delighted to be able to host this event.

“This ‘one-step shop’ not only helps link our tenants and residents with advice, resources and more but also offers a chance to learn more about what’s happening in the local community and how to get involved. Thank you to everyone who came along.”

Attendees were full of praise for the event with feedback including:

“Thanks for inviting us, you are all so welcoming and we get to speak to some really interesting and amazing people within the community of Possilpark. We made some good connections organisation wise; these are always great events for us, it is always a good way to network and meet other organisations who we can work with for the good of the Community.” (Jobs & Business Glasgow)

“This is a great Information and Advice event for the local community, the support available really benefits people. We look forward to future (Information) day to provide ongoing support to those who may be struggling.” (Baby Food Bank)

“The event was really good; it was easier to speak to someone face to face about my money issues. I received advice and support about energy and paying bills. The food was fantastic.” (Local tenant)