What is this service:
We have our own dedicated Welfare Rights and Debt Advisor based in our centre. They are available to meet with you to discuss ways to increase your income and to manage your debt.
This advisor is commissioned by us, from Community Health Advice and Initiatives Edinburgh, using a grant from the National Lottery Fairer Life Chances Fund.
How and when to access this service:
Speak with a member of centre staff and we can arrange an appointment in our centre, usually on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Or, send an email to hello@southsidecommunitycentre.co.uk.
Who can access this service:
Any person aged at least eighteen years of age who lives, works, studies, volunteers or visits the Southside area.
What we can help with:
We can work with you to;
> Carry out a benefit check to identify any unclaimed benefits to which you may be entitled.
>Support you to manage debt by setting up payment plans or reducing your debt through formal processes such as bankruptcy.
>Identify any grants and financial assistance available to you from other third sector organisations.
What we cant help with:
We are not always the best place service to support you, when this is the case we well do our best to sign post you to a more suitable service.
income and debt advice
Throughout the 2025/2026 financial year we supported clients to collectively increase their income by £400k.