Cost-of-living crisis – support and advice offered at upcoming event in Orkney

Practical support and advice will be offered to Council and OHAL tenants struggling with soaring bills at an upcoming event in Orkney.

The Council and Orkney Housing Association Ltd (OHAL) have joined forces to host a “Navigating the Cost-of-Living Crisis” event on Wednesday 16 November at The Noust room within the Pickaquoy Centre, Kirkwall from 5.30pm-7pm. There’s also the option to attend remotely by Microsoft Teams.

Two guest speakers will offer support, advice and practical tips to try and help those who may be struggling especially during the winter months.

A guest from the Citizens Advice Bureau, Orkney will outline the CAB’s Easing the Cost-of-Living Initiative – which a series of online self-help tools to assist people with money matters i.e., benefits and debt and another speaker from Social Security Scotland will speak to what financial help may be available through Social Security Scotland.

One of the organisers is Claire Pritchard, the Council’s Tenant Participation Officer. She said: “In Orkney, we are concerned that people will start falling through the cracks and we want to work together as a community to ensure we have a strong network here to support individuals and families.

“There are more and more people across Orkney, of all ages, backgrounds, in work and not, who are struggling during the current cost-of-living crisis.

“Whether it’s trying to pay the bills, put food on the table, heat homes, or put fuel in cars, individuals and families are feeling the squeeze with some wages not even covering the basics.

“Orkney has an amazing way of coming together when we need it most, and I’m sure we can do the same now and use this event to kickstart work in partnership to provide practical support and hope for residents during these difficult times.”

Suzy Boardman, from OHAL, added: “By working together we can make a difference to the lives of others. We hope that this event is a chance for us to share the practical support that is out there that some may not be aware of. It’s also a chance to signpost people to other agencies who may also be able to help. We must work in partnership to do all we can to help.”

Please note, numbers to this event are limited, but if there’s enough interest others may be held. To book a place to attend either in person, or remotely please contact Claire.pritchard@orkney.gov.uk 01856 873535 ext 2179 or Suzy Boardman at enquiries@ohal.org.uk 01856 875253.