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Managing Your Money

We could all use a little extra help with our finances from time to time. In this section you’ll find some simple money advice, help with handling debt and links to local and national organisations who can give you a little extra advice and support.

Local contacts

Barrhead Credit Union

A Credit Union is a non-profit organisation that  exists solely to benefit its members. It is a financial co-operative where a group of people who save together and lend to each other at a reasonable rate of interest. Every member, no matter how much their savings, has an equal say in the running of Barrhead Credit Union.

Check the Scottish Credit Union website for more on how a Credit Union can help you.

Contact details:

Opening hours:

  • Mon, 7:30am–12 noon & 1pm–4pm
  • Tue & Fri, 10am–2 noon & 1pm–4pm
  • Thurs, 10am–12 noon 3pm–6pm
  • Sat, 10am–1pm


East Renfrewshire Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB)

The CAB can advise you on a variety of money and legal matters free and in complete confidence.

The Scottish Citizen’s Advice Bureau website is packed with information on debt, benefits and a whole range of money matters.

Contact details:

  • Tel: 0141 881 2032
  • Address: 216 Main Street, Barrhead, G78 1SN

Opening hours:

  • Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 9.30am–3.30pm
  • Wed, 9.30am–3.30pm & 5pm–7pm (appointment only)

A CAB drop-in also takes place at Mearns Community Library, McKinley Place (next to The Avenue shopping centre) Thursdays from 12pm–3pm.


The Money Advice Team

The Team offer free confidential, professional and practical advice on money matters. They can negotiate with creditors on your behalf and help fill in court forms.

Contact details:

Opening hours:  

  • Mon–Thurs 9am–5pm
  • Fri 9am–4pm


Income Maximisation Service

Offers advice and assistance with benefits information, application and assists with the appeals process. The services runs outreach clinics throughout the district on an appointment basis.

Tel: 0141 577 3081/3071

Opening hours:  Mon–Fri 8.45am–4.45pm


On the phone

National Debt Line Scotland  0808 808 4000

(24hr voicemail)

The specialist independent advice given on the website is backed up with self-help materials which can be sent to you free of charge.

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat 9.30am–1pm  


Online

Try the BBC Skills Wise money quiz
Don't short-change yourself! Work your way through three levels to make sure you're making the most of your money

Skillswise will also help to improve your English and maths, with factsheets, worksheets, quizzes and games.

You should also check out the BBC range of money guides.

Find out more about:

  • The cost of your home
  • Savings and investments
  • Debt
  • Tax and benefits
  • Pensions
  • Benefits and Tax Credits