Promoting Staff Wellbeing
Financial Wellbeing
Update - October 2022
The Scottish Government has developed a campaign and supporting website to provide advice, guidance and support for people during the cost of living crisis.
The website is available here: Cost of Living Campaign
Please also see this Money Helper Poster - please print and display around your workplaces.
Additional Resources
Council Tax Reduction
Council tax reduction could help reduce some or all of the Council Tax bill for those on a low income, including those who own their own home.
For help to apply for all benefits or entitlements contact the Welfare Support Team: telephone 0800 090 1004 or email welfare.support@highland.gov.uk
Turn down the heat
A simple but effective way to cut heating costs is to take control of your central heating thermostat. Reducing room temperatures by just 1°C could cut your heating bills by almost 10%
For further advice contact Home Energy Scotland advisors on 0808 808 2282 or visit: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/home-energy-scotland
Price comparison websites
Price comparison websites let you compare hundreds of financial products and ensure you choose the best one for your circumstances. Suggestions include:
Savings / ISA's
The interest charged on debts can be much higher than the interest earned on savings. So it may be an option to reduce debts with some of your savings. Consider organising a free overdraft or contacting a local Credit Union. Credit Unions can also provide loands and savings accounts.
Transfer your debt
If you're making large interest payments on debt, it might make financial sense to transfer it all onto a credit card with a 0% balance-transfer deal. Use the comparison sites above to search available cards, to choose the best deals which will suit your needs.
Switch Energy supplier
Getting the best deal can make a big difference to your gas and electricity bills with annual savings of around £300 available. Use a comparison website or phone different energy suppliers to see if you can save by switching.
Details of Ofgem accredited price comparison websites: www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/how-switch-energy-supplier-and-shop-better-deal
Home Energy - Keep cosy for less
- Set heating controls to manage the temperature of your home – remember to use the weekday and weekend settings.
- Give your boiler its annual maintenance check.
- Be prepared in case of a power cut – see handy tips available from www.ssepd.co.uk/preparingforapowercut
- Check your fuel supply of wood pellets, logs or oil. Ensure wood is dry.
- Further advice available from Home Energy Scotland: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/home-energy-scotland