Western Isles Citizens Advice Service (WICAS) has unlocked £1.44 million for people in the Western Isles in the last financial year.
The service is experiencing a jump in the number of people struggling to cope with cost pressures and price rises.
The four CAB offices – based in Stornoway, Tarbert, Liniclate and Castlebay – collectively saw 2081 clients over the period, a total of 4539 contacts, leading to 7638 individual pieces of advice being given.
Debt and benefits accounted for 39% (808) of client enquiries, followed by utilities and communication issues at 18% (375) of clients seen.
WICAS delivers free, confidential and impartial support and guidance on a wide range of topics, giving people the information they need to deal with any situation and improve their lives.
The service is also calling for new volunteers to join the team of advisors to help with the current high demand for advice.
Murdo Maclean, chairman of WICAS, said: “This has been another busy period for our advisers in all four bureaux, but we are pleased to have provided much-
“We have seen an increase of a 62% in client financial gain which we have been able to achieve for our clients” which includes unclaimed benefits, compensation, withheld wages, energy grants.
“Of course not all of our cases result in financial gains, but over the year we managed to help local people access a total of almost £1.5 million.
“That is over £6 for every £1 of core funding we receive, or over £50 for every individual in the Western Isles. And of course that money is spent here on the islands, in local shops, cafes etc. So it helps the local economy too.”
Operations manager, Lynda MacLean, explained: “When someone is struggling financially the first thing we do is carry out an income maximisation exercise and establish if clients are claiming what they are entitled to. It is amazing how many times this is not the case. Our expert advisers can find that support and help you access it.
“We will not be able to capture every financial gain, and the real figure is likely to be much higher, but we are very proud of the help our advisors have been able to give to the community.
“It should also be remembered that in most cases, the piece of mind delivered for clients, in terms of mental and physical health impacts, far exceeds any quantifiable financial gains.”
“We understand that it can be difficult for people to admit to themselves that they are struggling to keep their heads above water. WICAS advisers understands this, they don’t judge, they just help.
“Our advice is free, impartial and confidential and it is for everyone, whether they are in work or not. The sooner people who are worried about money, or any other issues, seek advice, the better their potential outcomes are.”
She added: “We also want to take this opportunity to ask local people if they would be interested in joining our team as volunteers.
“The cost of living crisis is seeing a huge increase in the number of people coming to us for advice and our team is stretched to capacity – we need more people.
“Being a CAB volunteer is a terrific way of giving something to your community. You don’t need any particular experience or qualifications – we’ll give you very thorough training.
“All you need is a few hours per week and a willing-
Anyone interested should contact any one of our offices or call 01870 602421 or email bureau@uistcab.casonline.org.uk.
Murdo Maclean, chairman of WICAS
Citizens Advice service unlocks nearly £1.5 million for islanders amid cost-
17 August 2023