Support at Christmas: Local MSP highlights helplines and advice for those who need it

Ms. Adamson said that the holiday period is a time of joy for many but social and financial pressures – alongside social isolation – can mean that Christmas time is difficult for lots of people.

The MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw is highlighting a range of support channels for people who may be struggling.

She said: “Many people will think of Christmas as a time of family and celebration – and that is terrific. But lots of people struggle – especially at this time of year.

“For people experiencing social isolation, or others worried about the added pressures on their finances, Christmas can be an alienating and anxious time.

“There is huge financial stress caused by the commercial pressure to buy gifts and spend in excess. It is important that we are honest with one another about the impact that can have.

“Everyone has different circumstances but we can all afford to be honest and kind to one another. Prioritise your wellbeing and the wellbeing of your loved ones over the commercial and social pressures of the season.

“And if you don’t have a network around you, there are wonderful people and community organisations that can help.

“I want to wish all of my constituents in Motherwell and Wishaw and everyone across Scotland a happy and healthy Christmas.”

Where to find help

Advice

Citizens’ Advice Scotland provides free, confidential, and impartial advice on a range of issues that affect people. You can find out more online at cas.org.uk or by phoning their helpline free on 0800 028 1456.

The Motherwell and Wishaw Citizens Advice Bureau can assist residents with advice by phoning 0808 196 9180, emailing [email protected], or by visiting the office at 90 Brandon Parade East, Motherwell ML1 1LY.

The Scottish Government funds Advice Direct Scotland which offers expert guidance and support on a wide range of essential services. You can find out more at advicedirect.scot or call free on 0808 800 9060.

Mental Health

SAMH

Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) – Scotland’s national mental health charity - provides mental health social care support, addictions and employment services, among others:

Samaritans

If you are going through a tough time, you can call Samaritans free, any time day or night on 116 123.

CALM

CALM is here for everyone who’s struggling and to provide life-saving support for anyone affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. Call the CALM helpline on 0800 58 58 58

Breathing Space

Breathing Space is a free, confidential, phone service for anyone in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. Call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87

Shout

Shout is the UK's first and only 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis. Get free, confidential mental health support anytime, anywhere. Text 'Shout' to 85258.

Childline

If you are a child or young person, you can call Childline on 0800 1111. Whether it’s something big or small, their trained counsellors can help.

Parentline

ParentLine Scotland is the free, confidential, telephone helpline for parents and anyone caring for a child in Scotland. Call 0800 028 2233.

Carers

Carers Trust

Carers Trust is a major charity for, with and about carers. We work to improve support, services and recognition for anyone living with the challenges of caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems. Call 01698 428090

As a Carer, you may need support to help you in your caring role. You can register as a carer with North Lanarkshire Carers Together. More at carerstogether.org or by phoning 01698 404055

Lanarkshire Carers is a resource for carers across Lanarkshire to access information, advice and a range of direct support services to support them in their caring roles. More at lanarkshirecarers.org.uk or by phoning 01698 428090

Community

Motherwell Football Club has recently started a new programme with SAMH called ‘The Changing Room’ which is encouraging young men 18 and over, to come together over the course of 12 weeks, build social connections, and have fun. Please email [email protected] for more information.

The Newmains Lunch Club is held every Tuesday and Thursday in Coltness Memorial Church between 12.00-13.30. It is open to anyone over the age of 50 and provides a meal, good company and outings throughout the year.

The Food for Thought Café and Wellbeing Centre provides quality, affordable, homemade meals, as well as well-being services and a wide selection of classes and activities which are currently free to access.

They are open Monday-Saturday from 10-5pm. This cafe was set up by Lanarkshire Association for Mental Health (LAMH), who have been supporting and guiding people through their mental health journey since 1983. Find our more online at lamh.org.uk or by calling 01698 476726.

Scams

At Christmas time, scammers are still working, doing their best to catch you out; this can affect your mental health and wellbeing. With scamming becoming more advanced, they can be more convincing than you might think - it is important to stay vigilant. Remember, your bank will never contact you for details over the phone.

Report commercial scams and fraud to your local authority Trading Standards. You can report scams to Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or via their ScamWatch tool at https://scamwatch.consumeradvice.scot

With Christmas approaching and bills rising, it's tempting to consider a quick fix. If you or someone you know has been targeted by a loan shark online, visit stopillegallending.co.uk or call the free, confidential helpline at 0800 074 0878.

Social Security

The Scottish Government has a dedicated webpage for cost-of-living support at costofliving.campaign.gov.scot with information on a range of support options.

Turn2us helps people in financial hardship to gain access to social security benefits, charitable, grants and support services – alongside a free benefits calculator. You can call them on 0808 802 2000, 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday. All calls are free from a UK landline and from most mobiles.

Call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222 to find out about if you are eligible for additional support.

If you’re struggling to make your money last, are worried about your bills or need help managing debt, the Money Talk Team Service can help. You can: Go to the Money Talk Team website or Phone: 0800 028 1456.

For people affected by the UK Government decision to end universal provision for Winter Fuel Payment, you can find out about eligibility and apply for Pension Credit online at gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim or by phoning the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234. A friend or family member can call for you.