7 October 2025

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025 (6 – 12 October 2025), we are encouraging everyone to seek support if they’re experiencing financial stress - because money worries can affect anyone and help is available.

 Financial stress can impact your mental and physical health, relationships and overall wellbeing. It’s important to know that you’re not alone and many people have faced similar challenges. 

Our Ways to be Well guide includes a dedicated section on Managing Money Worries. You can help look after your mental health when money is tight by:

  • Talking about it: sharing your worries with someone you trust can help ease the burden
  • Being kind to yourself: avoid negative self-talk and remember that things can improve
  • Getting (or staying) informed: use trusted resources like our Money Worries App and Citizens Advice
  • Seek support early: the sooner you reach out, the more options you’ll have

Our free Money Worries App is a digital directory offering information on local and national support services to help you stay informed about the help that’s available. Whether you need advice on energy saving, debt, health conditions, disabilities at work or urgent help with emotional distress and social care - the app can guide you to the right support. You can download the app now from the App Store or Google Play. 

Dr Sohail Bhatti, Director of Public Health at NHS Borders said: “Challenge Poverty Week is a vital opportunity to recognise how financial inequality affects health, and to promote the support available to help address it. There’s a wealth of resources available to help you make the most out of your money, ensure that you are aware of any benefits you may be entitled to and ways to ease the stress which can come with money worries. 

“Winter can be especially tough with colder nights and rising energy costs. If you’re struggling, please reach out, help is available.” 

Citizens Advice Scotland offer free and trusted guidance on everything from the cost of living to pensions via their Citizens Advice Helpline on 0800 028 1456.

For Challenge Poverty Week Scottish Borders Council are holding community information drop-in events at:

  • Philiphaugh Community Centre: Thursday 9 October, 10am- 12pm
  • Langlee Community Centre: Friday 10 October, 12:30 – 2:30pm 

These sessions supplement their year round local drop-in What Matters Hubs where you can speak with staff such as social workers and occupational therapists as well as people from community groups and voluntary organisations across the Scottish Borders. There is also a range of help for those facing financial hardship on Scottish Borders Council's cost of living support webpages or through their Customer Advice and Support Services Helpline on 0300 100 1800.