Scottish Government funding will expand a charity support line providing a one-step gateway to cost of living and whole family support to help up to 7,500 families.

Children First’s service offers practical, emotional and financial help and advice to families across Scotland 365 days a year by phone, webchat, text, email, video and face to face and this funding will allow it to more than double the support it provides.

The support offered by the service includes immediate cash grants and practical tips on budgeting and debt management; emotional support to help families manage stress and anxiety; practical advice to navigate public services, helping to access things like childcare and housing; and connections for families to specialised support to help people get into and stay in work.

First Minister John Swinney said: “During the cost of living crisis, there are families struggling to make ends meet and accessing help can often be overwhelming.

“We want to provide a better future for every parent and every child, and to do that we need to make support as simple, accessible and effective as possible.  

“That’s why we are pleased to be supporting Children First to develop a national front door for support, so that help is in the right place, at the right time. Organisations like Children First play such an important role and I am pleased that we are supporting them to double the support they provide to families across Scotland.”

Linda Jardine, Director of Children and Family Services, Children First said: “This funding is fantastic news for Scotland’s children and families, who often tell us that they don’t know where to turn for support.  Parents and carers, who are often stressed and exhausted trying to find the right help when they need it, will welcome this with open arms.

“By connecting families to joined-up practical, emotional and financial help through our support line, we will reduce the impact of poverty, strengthen families and make sure thousands more of Scotland’s children enjoy the safe and secure childhood, which is every child’s right.

“Children First’s support line is open seven days a week, 365 days a year. If your family is in need of help, our friendly and understanding support line team are here to help. Call us on 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline.”