Citizens Advice: Over 1.3m Scots struggling on present incomes amid cost of living crisis, analysis suggests

Over 1.3 million people in Scotland are struggling on their present income, new analysis from Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) suggests.

The charity analysed research from YouGov which found 29% of people were finding it difficult on their present income.

Considering Scotland’s adult population, it’s estimated more than 1.3 million are struggling as living costs rise.

As of June 2023 the rate of inflation in the UK was 7.3%, whereas food inflation was at 17.4%.

The charity is encouraging anyone worried about money or bills to seek advice from their local CAB or from online advice resources such as www.moneymap.scot.

CAS Financial Health spokesperson Myles Fitt said: “Many of us are feeling the squeeze of the cost-of-living crisis, but it is still startling to see well over a million people are estimated to be finding it difficult on their present incomes.

“Bills and prices have raced ahead of wages and benefits in the past year and show no signs of slowing down significantly. It’s a worrying time for many people.

“There’s nothing to be embarrassed about when well over a million of us are worried about money, it is affecting so many of us. That is why we would encourage people to seek advice, starting with our online advice resources like www.moneymap.scot.

“Our advisers get real results. We unlocked £132m for people last year, and one in six people who sought advice saw a financial gain, the average value of which was over £4,200. Our advice is free, impartial and confidential. CABs don’t judge, they just help.”