Children First is urging families in Renfrewshire who are struggling with money to contact its national support line this winter.
The charity says families facing poverty can get confidential help with money worries. With extra funding from the Scottish Government, Children First can also provide emergency support to families in crisis.
Every family that contacts the support line will be offered debt advice, help to access benefits, and guidance to improve their household finances.
Until the end of February, eligible families can also receive essential white goods such as fridges and washing machines. This support is available through funding from the British Gas Energy Trust.
In 2025, the charity’s support line helped almost 1,500 families with money worries. Children First said its work put £1.8 million back into household budgets and helped families manage more than £1 million in debt.
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.
“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.”
Families can call the support line free on 08000 28 22 33 from 9am to 9pm, Monday to Friday, or 9am to 12 noon on Saturday and Sunday. Support is also available through online webchat on the Children First website.
The charity shared the experience of one parent, Amy, whose name has been changed to protect her family’s identity. When she contacted the support line, she was living in a damp flat with two young children and was £190 short each month.
Children First arranged immediate food and heating support. The team also secured £1,500 from the Home Heating Fund, reduced household bills, and helped Amy access child maintenance payments and local support services.
The charity said Amy’s financial position improved by more than £4,500, helping to stabilise her family’s situation.
Amy 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.”
In January 2026, Children First received £1.5 million in funding from the Scottish Government to provide extra emergency support to families as part of the national mission to eradicate child poverty.