Carrick Money Advice Service - What We Do
Stepping Stones for Families’ Carrick Money Advice Service (CMAS) is based in Girvan Town House and provides families, children and young people (up to the age of 24) across the Carrick areas of South Ayrshire with access to local money advice and a combined family support service.
Creating positive and trusted relationships our award winning CMAS service can provide an immediate and understanding response to people who may need some help and support with:
· Debt advice
· Benefit entitlement and checking benefit entitlement
· Financial awareness
· Filling in forms
· Affordable Credit
· Fuel efficiency
· Maximising income
Innovation and early intervention are also key to CMAS’ success in disrupting the revolving door of repeated financial crisis which we know can have a devastating and lasting impact upon: health; family relationships; employment; education; friendships; and wellbeing in multiple ways, which can lead to profound isolation and despair. As an organisation, we know that all the associated impacts of financial crisis, are entirely preventable.
Promoting routes out of poverty through early intervention, CMAS seeks to ensure that people have the financial literacy skills, confidence, connections and knowledge they need to take control over their own finances and ultimately enjoy improved health and wellbeing.
People tell us that through the support of CMAS they have been able move beyond day-to-day survival, and over time they have experienced the freedom to move forward with their lives, and look towards achieving their aspirations.
In the last year alone, CMAS has independently realised almost £1 million back into the local rural Carrick economy. The service was accessed by 192 parents, and 113 young people (up to the age of 24) across 750 appointments. Over £40,000 worth of debts held against people have also been re-negotiated.
Through the incredible support of William Grant Youth Opportunities Fund administered by Foundation Scotland , Carrick Money Advice Service can focus on building relationships with families and providing them with the knowledge, support, networks and resources they need to sustain the positive changes they make in their lives.
If you have dependent children or if you are a child or young person (up to the age of 24) living in the Carrick area and you are experiencing money worries and financial hardship, please contact CMAS on 01465 712637, by email admin.moneyadvice@ssff.org.uk
To learn more about Stepping Stones for Families, see Our Story animation here