AS WE KNOW, Clackmannanshire is the smallest local authority (LA) in mainland Britain, currently facing high levels of deprivation, ill-health and high unemployment.

Some of the areas here are within the 5 per cent most deprived in Scotland (on the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation – SIMD). With almost a third of all households in Clackmannanshire considered fuel poor.

At Clacks CAB we want to ensure that the people of the Wee County are able to heat their homes during the harsh winter months. We also want everyone to be aware of their tenancy rights and have their income maximised for the period ahead.

We aim to help reduce fuel poverty in this area by making energy consumers energy aware. We are offering one to one tailored energy sessions, to help people understand their energy usage and bills effectively.

We will also look at possible entitlements that may be available for example warm home discount. How to save money by switching supplier and provide useful money saving tips.

Staff at CAB want to empower people to deal with their energy bills more effectively, assist those in fuel debt to negotiate with suppliers and offer help with applications for individual grants, where appropriate.

We are actively ensuring that anyone renting a property in Clackmannanshire is fully aware of their rights and responsibilities as tenants whether renting from a social or a private landlord.

We actively work with tenants to prevent homelessness and assist them to remain in their current tenancies: through income maximisation, debt advice and assistance, representation in court and tribunals where required, for example: evictions and benefits appeals. We want to ensure that the homes they rent are suitable for the families that live in them.

We are on hand to offer full benefit checks this winter to ensure that all the residents of Clackmannanshire are receiving their full financial entitlements.

Please feel free to attend our drop in sessions during our opening hours (Monday to Thursday, 10am-3pm; Friday 9am-2pm) to discuss any issues you are facing..

Clacks CAB is a local independent charity and has been delivering advice, support and assistance to the people of Clackmannanshire for more than 50 years.

We have a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that assist the people of Clackmannanshire when they need it the most.

For more information on us please visit clackscab.org.uk, Facebook and Twitter.