Coronavirus: extra support (Scotland)
Check insurance policies
Check if you have an insurance policy which could increase your income or cover payments on essential items such as your mortgage. Contact the insurer to see what help you may be able to receive. You may have:
- payment protection insurance;
- mortgage payment protection insurance; or
- accident, sickness or unemployment insurance.
Highest risk group.
The Government has issued extra advice for those at the highest risk of Coronavirus. The mygov.scot website has more information about help you may be able to receive if you are at the highest risk from Coronavirus.
Free school meals
If your child is eligible for free school meals the school should make sure that they continue to provide this, the school may send food parcels or give you supermarket food vouchers. The scheme will now be running during the summer holiday, as well as term time. Speak to your child’s school to check that this is being done for you. More detail can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Food banks
If you are struggling to buy food, many food banks are staying open to support people during the coronavirus crisis. However the numbers of sessions are being reduced and you will be given or sent a pre-packed food parcel. You can find your local food bank through The Trussell Trust.
Grants
Many charities offer non-repayable grants to people who are struggling financially. To see if there are any grants which may be able to help you, visit Turn2us.
Council assistance support schemes
In Scotland you can apply for a Crisis Grant. The grant can cover the cost of an emergency such as an unexpected crisis or a gap in your normal income.
Debt advice
To get personal advice on how to deal with your debts, use our Digital Advice Tool. Tell us about your situation and your debts, and our tool will advise you on the solutions suitable for you.
Visit www.nationaldebtline.org and click ‘Get started’ in the ‘Find debt solutions’ box.