Ward Forum Focuses on Money Advice and Benefits

Money advice and entitlement to benefits will be the focus of discussion when Highland Councillors for the Culloden and Ardersier Ward hold their next ward forum at Smithton Primary School on Tuesday 5th February at 7.30 p.m. 

The Councillors – Provost Bob Wynd, John Ford. Roderick Balfour and Glynis Sinclair - are aware that the early months of the year often bring into sharp focus concerns across communities about household finances.

They have invited Patricia Sproul, Money Advice Manager with The Highland Council, as well as members of the Council’s Income Maximisation Service to attend and offer advice to members of the public who are welcome to attend the forum.

Ms Sproul said: “Christmas can often be a time of additional expense with families feeling under pressure to spend more than they can really afford. This is a problem that affects people from all income brackets.”

The Council’s Income Maximisation Service will offer guidance and support with regard to claiming benefits and other entitlements such as tax credits.

The Culloden and Ardersier Ward Forum is open to all members of the public who can raise any questions for Highland Council or their partner agencies delivering public services. This Ward Forum will be Chaired by Councillor John Ford who will be joined by the other three Councillors for the Ward together with the Community Councils, Police and representatives from Health and Fire services.

Provost Wynd said: “The Council will increase support for welfare rights and money advice services. This is an important service to encourage families to increase their household incomes by taking up benefits or managing their debt. Any one who wants to know more about this service should come to the Ward Forum on 5th February.

The Ward Forum is an opportunity for the public to meet their Councillors and Community Councillors to ask questions about what is going on in the Ward. The public is invited to contact Charles Stephen, Ward Manager on 01463 724246 for more information.
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Notes: Patricia Sproul, Money Advice Manager: 1463 228729;Councillor John Ford: 01463 792626; Provost Bob Wynd 1463 794573.