GP practices in rural and island communities to offer welfare advice

GP practices in rural and island communities will soon be able to refer patients to welfare advice services.

From autumn, practices in 20 rural and 10 island communities will be able to provide an in-house welfare rights officer.

They will be able to offer advice on increasing income, social security eligibility, debt resolution, housing and employability issues.

Investment of up to £300,000 is being made by the Scottish Government to help support the services.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it will help ensure that those in rural and island communities have access to the same advice.

The SNP leader was speaking on a visit to the Forge Medical Practice in Glasgow, which has offered the service since 2021.

“The cost of living crisis is on everyone’s mind right now and we know the impact that can have on people’s mental and physical health, particularly those who are struggling the most to make ends meet,” she said.

“Dedicated money and welfare advice in the same location where people are already receiving mental and physical health support is about providing people with more convenient access to the help they need, whilst also reaching those who do not engage with traditional advice services.

“This funding will ensure people in rural and island communities have access to the same advice and support, given the particular challenges they also face from the rising cost of living, including fuel and food inflation.

“The Scottish Government is committed to mitigating the impact of increased costs, and this action is in addition to the almost £3bn already allocated this year by ministers to help households cope with the pressures so many are facing.”