Renfrewshire families are being urged to use advice services based in local schools.

The council's Advice Works team and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau's Schools Support Service provide easily accessible and confidential guidance.

As winter and the festive period approaches, families are encouraged to check their entitlements including benefits, school clothing grants, and free school meals.

Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, depute leader of Renfrewshire Council and chair of the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee, said the best thing families can do is get advice on their finances.

She said: “With costs for everyday life continuing to remain high and impacting on family life, it is important that people know they can get advice that’s free, confidential and impartial.

"The cost-of-living crisis has not gone away and continues to affect people, regardless of incomes.

"As a council, we remain committed to ensuring Renfrewshire is a fair place for all our residents and that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.

"With another winter approaching, where everyone expects to put on their heating as well as buy food and gifts for the festive period, now is the time to talk about money with an adviser.

"Both Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau and the Council’s Advice Works team can offer tailored advice and support that will help with managing household budgets and ensuring families are getting everything they’re entitled to."

Primary or pre-school parents and carers can make an appointment with the Family Advice service by emailing adviceworks@renfrewshire.gov.uk or calling 0300 300 1238.

Secondary and ASN school parents and carers can make an appointment with the Schools Support Service using an online form or by calling 0141 889 2121.

People whose children have left school or do not have children can also contact both services for help and advice on a wide range of things, including housing, employment, budgeting, and money.