16 March 2021
As the effects of COVID-19 continue to impact on many aspects of our home and work lives, the stress and worry caused by financial concerns can have a detrimental impact on our physical and mental health & wellbeing.
To help combat this NHS Borders, Scottish Borders Council and Third Sector partners have worked together to launch the NHS Borders Money Worries App. This free integrated app is designed to help Borders residents affected by a wide range of financial concerns to access the support available.
NHS Borders Money Worries contains a digital directory with information about support services available nationally and locally in the Scottish Borders. The user-friendly design and content are divided into four key areas; Money, Health, Housing and Work.
Once you have downloaded the app, just click on one of these sections to obtain valuable advice and relevant contacts that can help you access support. There is also useful information on a variety of issues ranging from advice on energy saving, debt and health problems or disabilities at work; to more urgent help with emotional distress and social care services.
Fiona Doig, Head of Health Improvement for NHS Borders, said: “Money worries at the best of times can cause stress which may lead to anxiety and affect our mental and physical health as well as our relationships at home and at work. We know that these sorts of worries are increasing in our communities as we live through the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on jobs and businesses. We are hoping our app will overcome some of the barriers people are experiencing in the absence of face to face support from families, friends and support services.
“Times are really tough right now and if you are worried about money, please download our NHS Borders Money Worries App. This will give you access to confidential, quality assured information and support. If you know someone who is struggling with money, please share this with them.”
Councillor Robin Tatler, Executive Member for Community Development and Localities, added: “There are a number of reasons that individuals and families may find themselves experiencing poverty, whether it is through low income, unemployment, ill health, an unexpected change in circumstances or some other factor outwith their control. COVID-19 has brought additional challenges and people may find themselves facing hardship for the first time as a result of the pandemic. Whatever the reason, it is important for people to know that help is available from a wide range of organisations. We hope that people will find the NHS Borders Money Worries App to be an easy and accessible way to access this support.”
Health and social care staff in supportive roles are also encouraged to download and keep this app so that they can use the resource as a helpful signposting tool for their service users who may be looking for advice or help.
The app can be downloaded by searching for NHS Borders Money Worries App on either the Apple App store or Google Playstore or directly at: