A report has been published highlighting the important work of the East Lothian Advice Consortium (ELAC) in providing free, impartial advice to local residents on matters such as benefits and debts.
ELAC is a partnership between Haddington Citizen Advice Bureau and Musselburgh Citizen Advice Bureau.
Key findings of its annual report include:
- In 2023/2024, ELAC secured a total of £3.248m financial gains for 1,048 clients, including £1.8m in increased benefits for 305 clients
- 521 clients were helped with money advice and a total of £4.7m in total debt was handled for all clients in 2023/2024.
The report also includes a number of case studies highlighting the support given to vulnerable people seeking benefits and income maximisation advice and debt advice. It includes a breakdown of cases by ward and client profile information.
Council Leader Norman Hampshire said:
“This annual report underlines the important work carried out by ELAC in providing a single gateway to advice on the range of financial issues and challenges that can be experienced by individuals and families in East Lothian.
“It shows that ELAC had continued to provide invaluable support and advice to local residents, which is something we greatly value as a council.
“I would encourage anyone currently worried about their financial situation to seek such advice and support.”
Louise Marongiu and Gayle Bell, Chief Officers at Musselburgh and Haddington CAB, said:
“These figures and case studies show the impact the cost of living crisis is having on local people in East Lothian. While the soaring cost of energy is driving this crisis, costs are going up everywhere, and met with flat or falling incomes at the same time, people don’t just need help with one issue. CAB is there to help with the multiple challenges that people are facing, and our advice is more important than ever.
“People are going to really struggle in the months ahead, and it’s important to understand that the challenges people face will be complex. Citizens Advice network is here with free, impartial and confidential advice and information. We provide advice on the person’s full range of issues and people can get advice in a way that suits them best – be that in person, over the phone and online.”
The full report can be read on the council website.