No room to move?

That was the stark warning issued by Citizens Advice Scotland as benefit reforms came into place on Monday.

The organisation has spoken out after 3,000 people marched in Glasgow and 1,000 descended on the Scottish parliament opposing the reforms at the weekend.

But Glasgow city council is facing the realities of the changes and has pledged to cope the best they can.

Councillor Stephen Curran, the Labour representative for Newlands and Auldburn, told The Extra: “Obviously we’re working very closely with the housing associations across the area.

“We also have a department which can give out discretionary payments to those who are struggling — its number is 0141 287 5050.

“And, we have free advice for those who need it. The freephone number is 0808 801 1011.”

SNP’s Langside councillor, Susan Aitken, told The Extra: “More than 15,000 households across the city will lose an average of £600 a year.

“Ultimately, we need a welfare system which reflects Scotland’s values, a system that ensures fair and decent support for those that need it most, protecting the vulnerable and supporting households.”

But Pollokshields councillor, Tory David Meikle defended the move.

He told The Extra: “Even in these tough times while the government is reducing the deficit, they are cutting income tax for 24 million people (taking 2.2 million out of income tax altogether).

“Cutting corporation tax to attract business and jobs so that we succeed in the global race; and starting to cap benefits so no household can claim more than the average working family earns.

“As a result of all of the changes this April, nine out of 10 working families will be almost £300 on average better off. Britain is in a global race. To succeed in that race, Britain must reform its tax and benefit system.”

Are you affected? Share your story by emailing Jim (link above).