A Scottish charity is urging families in need to seek help this winter.
Children First is calling on Glasgow families who are struggling financially to contact its national support line for help.
The charity offers confidential assistance with money worries, and due to additional funding from the Scottish Government, it can provide emergency support to families experiencing poverty.
Simon McGowan, assistant director at Children First, said: "We know it can feel hard to talk about money worries, but getting help early can make an enormous difference.
"Our friendly team listens without judgement and helps parents and carers get the support they need to make life better for their children."
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Beyond immediate crisis support, families who contact the charity will also receive expert advice on debt management, help accessing benefits, and guidance on improving long-term financial stability.
Through funding from the British Gas Energy Trust, the charity can also offer new white goods, such as fridges and washing machines, to eligible families until the end of February.
In 2025, Children First’s support line helped nearly 1500 families with financial concerns, putting £1.8 million back into household budgets and assisting with the management of more than £1 million of debt.
Simon said: "As well as immediate financial help to alleviate a crisis, we can offer practical, down-to-earth help with budgeting, benefits, debt and energy bills.
"And thanks to British Gas Energy Trust, until the end of February we can provide white goods like washing machines and fridges to families living without these essentials.
"We want parents and carers to know they don’t need to face their money worries alone.
"If you’re struggling, please get in touch.
"We can help you straight away."
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One parent who benefitted from the service, has explained how the charity really helped when she was at "breaking point".
Amy, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, was trapped in a damp flat with two young children, suffering from postnatal depression and £190 short every month.
Children First’s support line arranged food and heating support so Amy’s kids could stay warm and fed.
They also secured £1500 from the Home Heating Fund and negotiated lower bills, cutting Amy’s broadband down by £38 per month.
The team also secured £180 per month in child maintenance and connected Amy to housing, mental health and local family support services.
As a result, Amy’s financial situation improved by more than £4500.
She said: "I felt invisible before I called.
"Now I feel like someone is on my side.
"My kids are happy, and I can breathe again."
Children First’s support line operates from 9am to 9pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am to 12 noon on weekends.
Families can call 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at www.childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline.
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