Community / Cost of living crisis ‘far from over’ as CAB reveals annual figures
SHETLAND’s Citizens Advice Bureau says it unlocked more than £1.7 million for local people in the last financial year – with a warning that the cost of living crisis is “far from over”.
This was through helping people gain money through successful benefit applications, appeals and back payments, employment entitlements and energy grants.
Now the charity is asking local people to consider volunteering with it to help it deal with its growing workload.
Following the figures announced at the bureau’s AGM held on Wednesday, Shetland Islands CAB manager Della Armstrong said: “The data produced in our annual report clearly shows the cost of living crisis is far from over, and continues to hit so many households in Shetland.
“It’s important to just pause every now and again to look at how much we’ve been able to help people.
“I am incredibly proud of our hardworking team for this £1.7 million we’ve been able to deliver for people locally.
“This is often in small amounts but even these can make a huge difference to a family that’s struggling. The other thing to remember is that most of the money we put back in peoples’ pockets will be spent here in Shetland, helping local shops and the economy.”
Armstrong said CAB cannot promise to find additional income for everyone – “but you’d be surprised how many times we can”.
“For example, so many people are entitled to social security benefits that they don’t know about, so they aren’t claiming,” she added.
“We can do a check for you to see if you’re missing out on money like that. Or if you prefer you can check for yourself with our online tool www.moneymap.scot.”
“I would particularly urge those who may be worried by the recent news in regard to the winter fuel allowance to contact us for help and advice.”
The local branch said the continuing cost of living crisis is resulting in continued demand on the service.
It added that as a charity it cannot afford to pay for more staff, so it relies on volunteers.
“We continue to be really stretched and would love to hear from anyone who wants to volunteer with us,” Armstrong said.
“You don’t need to have any particular experience or qualifications. All you need is a willingness to help the community and a few hours to spare – we ask for a minimum of 6-8 hours per week.
“The CAB network offers fantastic training and mentoring and we pay travel expenses.
“Our current team are a great bunch to work with. You’ll make new friends and learn new skills. But the best thing about working in a CAB is of course being able to help people.
“So please do think about it, and if you’re interested please contact me at sicab@shetland.org.”
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