Citizens Advice Scotland have received a funding boost from the UK Government to help them deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland will receive up to £15m to help them manage the unprecedented rise in demand for help.
The charities have temporarily closed their offices in line with government advice but continue to provide a service online and over the phone.
There are several bureaux throughout the Borders including in Hawick and Galashiels, with extensions in Duns, Eyemouth and Kelso.
The money is part of a £750 million pot announced by the Chancellor Rishi Sunak to help frontline charities continue their vital work during the outbreak.
John Lamont MP commented: “I have worked very closely with Citizens Advice here in the Borders over my years as an elected representative. The team are always very knowledgeable and willing to help their local communities.
“I always try to catch up with the team in Hawick when I have a surgery there to hear about common issues, and any difficulties they are having.
“I know that they will be receiving an unprecedented number of enquiries due to the challenges thrown up by coronavirus. I hope this extra funding will stand them in good stead and help them to keep serving their local communities.”
Citizens Advice Scotland Chief Executive, Derek Mitchell said: “This additional support for the Citizens Advice network is hugely welcome. All across Scotland individual bureaux staff and volunteers have done incredible work transitioning to remote working to ensure people are still getting the advice and support they need.
“The Citizens Advice network was born in the shadow of the Second World War, we’ve always adapted to the changing challenges of the time. This funding will help ensure our network can adapt to meet the challenges presented by COVID-19, and continue to deliver the advice people need.”
