Matheson hears first hand about Scots’ debt problems

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson heard first hand about debt problems when he visited a new money advice service in West Lothian.

He sat in on one of the advice sessions at the Citizens Advice Bureau in Livingston, which has just begun offering specialist financial advice on behalf of the Money Advice Service.

Mr Matheson said: “This service will help Scots develop the skills to manage their money better. Having control over our finances gives individuals more confidence to deal with daily life, face any financial surprises and plan to achieve our goals.”

Lucy McTernan, chief executive of Citizens Advice Scotland, said: “Many people are struggling to make ends meet because the cost of living is going up, while incomes are falling and this is squeezing many households’ finances.

“The scale of this crisis is so great now that people need the best possible help and support – free and independent.”