This week is Challenge Poverty Week. A survey from Carers UK of more than 2000 unpaid carers in Scotland found that one in four (26%) carers are struggling to make ends meet, with nearly a quarter (24%) cutting back on essentials like food and heating. Nearly 1 in 6 carers (15%) said they were in debt because of caring.

We have a range of information, advice and support available:

• We offer surgeries and one-to-one appointments giving you access to expert advice on everything from relevant benefits and statutory rights to savings on home energy costs and ways to reduce the expense of caring.

• The Coalition of Carers in Scotland share regular updates on their website on information, advice and support to help carers and their families with the cost of living.

• The Edinburgh Food Project provide emergency food support to people who find themselves at crisis point and our Carer Support Team can help refer you. For more information, call 0808 196 6666 or email centre@vocal.org.uk.

• A website providing information on the wide range of advice and financial support available to people in Scotland was launched last year. Developed by the Scottish Government as a ‘one-stop shop’ to help those struggling with the cost of living crisis, the website includes information on help available for households to meet rising energy, housing and other costs.