Working4U Adult Learning Money Hub by WDYouthWork https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub Helpful money resources for adults living in West Dunbartonshire en-us 2021-02-09 20:36:31 UTC 2023-03-18 09:41:39 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f4f1.png Money Worries? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184589815 Are you in a bit of a money pickle or don't know where to get started? Confidentially text or WhatsApp 07800 005227 for support and advice on any of the topics on this page.]]> 2021-02-09 20:40:23 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184589815 Applying for a Crisis Grant WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184597834 West Dunbartonshire Council can help you with money if you find yourself in an emergency or crisis which you do not need to pay back. Examples include, you've lost all your money, you're a victim of domestic abuse and need help moving away, you're facing a gap in your normal income or an unexpected crisis occurs. You need to apply but decision, and payment, can usually be made the same day. You can apply by clicking here or you can call 01389 737640 9:00-15:30 Monday-Friday.

]]> 2021-02-09 20:42:23 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184597834 Want help with reading, writing or maths? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184602562 Wether school was too many moons ago or there's a topic you need help with, your lovely adult learning team is here to help. Phone 01389738775 or email communitylearning&development@west-dunbarton.gov.uk for more information. ]]> 2021-02-09 20:43:30 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184602562 Fuel bills WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184673680 Fuel poverty is an ever increasing problem.  Some of our staff hold a City & Guilds qualification in Energy Awareness and can offer advice and assistance on issues such as heating and fuel bills and fuel debt.  West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau are currently providing support on these issues, and tariffs, via the Local Energy Awareness Project.  Residents can contact them by clicking here.]]> 2021-02-09 21:01:32 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184673680 Would you like further qualifications? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184695517 We can help you gain a range of SQA approved qualifications for FREE. 

There are lots of choices available for you to get qualifications - all currently on zoom which you can be supported with joining.
Here's a look at the courses we offered from January 2021 - more coming soon. If you are intrested please email communitylearning&development@west-dunbarton.gov.uk

]]> 2021-02-09 21:07:22 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184695517 Dumbarton Credit Union is still open WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184747162 Did you know Dumbarton Credit Union is still open? The building is closed but you can call them 9:00-13:00 Monday to Friday. They can take on new applications over the phone including savings accounts and loan applications. A Credit Union may be able to offer you a lower interest low. Dumabrton Credit Union has also recently started offering payments via payment, which means you can conveniently pay into your account from your local PayPoint Store]]> 2021-02-09 21:21:32 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184747162 In debt? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184766369 We know debt can cause stress and sleepless nights. Our advisers are here to help you to make an informed choice in your route out of debt.  This can include options such as reducing current repayments, Bankruptcy, Minimal Asset Process (MAP) and Trust Deeds.  We will assist you throughout the process.
This is a free and confidential service to all residents in West Dunbartonshire. For support, call 01389 738296 or text or Whatsapp 07800 005227]]> 2021-02-09 21:27:28 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184766369 Working out your budget WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184782145 The Money Advice Service has a great tool which allows you to keep on track of your monthly budget and help you see clearly where you money is going. It's completely private - only you will be able to see it. ]]> 2021-02-09 21:32:06 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184782145 Opening up a bank account WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184823844 If you, or someone you know does not have a bank account, it may be difficult for them to accsess certain services or pay certain bills without incurring a charge. If family members share bank accounts, this may sometimes cause conflict. Here's a handy video guide to opening up a bank account. You, or someone you know, can also text or whatsapp 07800 005227 for support opening a bank account, including getting ID.]]> 2021-02-09 21:45:28 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184823844 Are you paying too much for your mobile? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184871620 Why pay more than you need on your monthly mobile bill?

Contracts for the latest iPhone can top an eye-watering £90 a month. But if you hang on to your old handset, you can find SIM-only deals for less than a tenner. That’s a difference of more than a grand a year!
A pay-as-you-go phone doesn’t require a credit check, so could be good if your credit record isn’t great. Watch the video below for info on how to find the best deal for your mobile. 


]]> 2021-02-09 22:01:49 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1184871620 WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1186769030 By 2023, everyone in the UK applying for certain benefits for the first time, or on certain existing benefits, will be moved over to Universal Credit. Sometimes changing to UC can bring about uncertainty. The video below explains Universal Credit and what you can expect from the switchover.
 ]]> 2021-02-10 11:09:28 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1186769030 Tips for Staying Safe while shopping online WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189741155 Online shopping is a great way to compare prices, find bargains and save money, but there are risks to be mindful about. Thankfully, if you follow a few simple rules you can have a safe and secure online shopping experience.]]> 2021-02-10 21:02:10 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189741155 Do you need a replacement birth certificate/ID? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189752594 Life without the proper ID may make it difficult to access some banking services or employment. If you need a copy of your birth certificate, you can only request one online by going to Scotland's People website (click here to access). A replacement will cost £13.40 including delivery, and will take 15 days to arrive. If you need a hand with this process, text or WhatsApp 07800 005227.]]> 2021-02-10 21:05:17 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189752594 Checking your benefit entitlement WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189786448 Use this handy calculator to check what benefits you may be entitled to and how to apply. It is important to note that this calculator can only act as a guide and they are not a guarantee. If you require Welfare support from our a member of our Welfare Team you can WhatsApp or text 07800 005227.]]> 2021-02-10 21:14:49 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189786448 Tips if you're prone to overspending on impulse purchases which you often later regret WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189823920 Even the best of us make money decisions we didn’t intend to make or, avoid making them at all. Click below to find out some helpful easy things you can do if you're prone to impulse spendings.]]> 2021-02-10 21:25:58 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189823920 Mental health and Money WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189867982 www.mentalhealthandmoneyadvice.org is a fantastic website which has some great resources for people who feel their Mental Health influences their money decisions. ]]> 2021-02-10 21:40:49 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189867982 Tired of waiting in the post office or shop queue to pay your bills? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189919604 Most bills can be paid with one of two things either a direct debit or a standing order which is amount taken out your bank account each month. You might have a lot more control over this amount than you think. Companies usually offer better rates for people paying by direct debit too.
Watch the video below explaining how Direct Debits work. Remember if you need an extra hand with how Direct Debits work and setting them up for yourself you can text of WhatApp 07800 005227]]> 2021-02-10 21:59:03 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1189919604 Waiting for your first universal credit payment WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190024449 It can take up to five weeks to get your first Universal Credit payment because Universal Credit is calculated monthly in arrears. If you will have little or no money until your first payment, you can request an advance payment through your online Universal Credit account, by talking to your work coach or by calling the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644. Below is a handy video explaining advances - remember you will need to pay them back!]]> 2021-02-10 22:40:07 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190024449 Struggling to Afford Food? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190028118 If you’re struggling to eat, your local food bank may be able to give you a few days supply of food.
Food banks can also give you vouchers for gas and electricity if you’re on a pre-pay meter and you’ve no money to top up.
You usually can’t go straight to a food bank.
You need to speak to someone who can refer you first.
People who can refer you include:
  • your GP
  • support worker, including some West Dunbartonshire Council Workers
  • a local charity, like Citizens Advice
  • the police
If you are in a crisis during Covid-19 in unable to afford food, you can refer yourself to the crisis team by filling in the form below.
]]> 2021-02-10 22:41:46 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190028118 Want to find the cheapest place for fuel in your area? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190042350 You will need to create an account, but it's free!]]> 2021-02-10 22:47:00 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190042350 What is meant by APR? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190057237 You’ll have seen the letters ‘APR’ if you’ve ever looked for a loan. They stand for annual percentage rate and show the total cost of borrowing money over a year. APR doesn’t just include interest, but any fees automatically added to the loan, like arrangement fees. Knowing what the APR is can help you fairly compare personal loans or credit cards. All loan products must show the APR rate.]]> 2021-02-10 22:54:15 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190057237 Beginners Guide to Online Banking WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190073060 Online banking, has become increasingly popular over the past decade. It’s a great way to take control of your finances and make sure you’re keeping up with payments. You can set up online banking from a computers, tablet or smart phone.
The Money Advice Service has a great resource on how to get started with online banking, including what to do if things go wrong. Click here to access the resource. ]]> 2021-02-10 23:01:38 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190073060 Where can I check my credit report for free? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190149180 Your credit score is created from information held in your credit report, also known as your credit file. Experian is a great way to check your credit score for free. They may ask you for confidential information such as who your bank account is with - don't worry they just checking its you! You can access your free credit score by clicking here.]]> 2021-02-10 23:45:01 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190149180 How can I bank during COVID-19? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190159683 All high street banks in West Dunbartonshire are still accepting walk-in appointments, however hours may be reduced. Remember you can bank online and via telephone banking, however waits may long.  It might be a good idea to phone early in the morning, when lines tend to be quieter. If the phone representative can not help you on the phone, some banks then are offering appointment slots for branches so you don't need to wait in lines, or re-explain your problem once you are there.
Click below to find the opening times of your West Dunbartonshire bank, including customer service numbers should you wish to call. ]]> 2021-02-10 23:51:44 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190159683 WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190169697 2021-02-10 23:58:10 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190169697 Need help with your CV, finding work or a different job? WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190171201 Working4U's Employability Service can help you create a CV, job search, obtain industry specific training and interview coaching. This is a free service open to all WD residents. You can refer yourself into the service by filling in this form, calling 01389 738296 or you can WhatsApp or text 07800 005227.]]> 2021-02-10 23:59:11 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190171201 Crisis Support WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190179177 If you are in a Crisis due to COVID-19 and are
  • Self isolating
  • Over the age of 70
  • In receipt of a letter from the NHS advising you are high risk
  • Medically vulnerable according to the government criteria
  • Single parents
you can refer yourself to the crisis support team by filling out this form, calling 01389 738282 (lines open 9am-3pm, Monday to Friday) Or text ‘help’ to 07800 002 582.
]]> 2021-02-11 00:04:25 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190179177 Tips on saving money on supermarket shop WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190183071 Food - we cant live without it! But it's also one of our biggest household expenses. The video below has some great tips on how you can cut the cost of your supermarket shop.]]> 2021-02-11 00:06:58 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190183071 Tips on cutting the cost of cooking WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190188467 Here are a few useful and easy tips to help you save money in on your supermarket shop.
1. Get friendly with the freezer
Pop as much as possible in the freezer rather than risk it going off in the fridge. Divide big packs of meat into portions, put in freezer bags and put them in the freezer.
Keep a sliced loaf in the freezer and take out individual slices for sandwiches or toast. Even cheese can be grated and frozen (sounds a wee bit bonkers, but works brilliantly).

2. Cook in bulk
Cooking in big quantities can save time as well as money. It doesn’t take much more effort to make twice as much bolognese - then you can take half as a packed lunch or freeze it as a home-made ready meal.

3. Try a use-it-up meal
If you’re no Nigella or Jamie and struggle to come up with ideas, try out a website such as SuperCook (although there are loads to choose from). Just enter the food you do have, and it will come up with recipes based on the items you already own.
The Money Advice Service also has a great video on the topic - Click below to watch!
]]> 2021-02-11 00:10:20 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190188467 Tips to Save Energy WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190204607 Here are a few useful and easy tips to help you save money in your home.
1. Dial it down
Turn down your thermostat by just 1°C, and you could cut 10% off your heating bill. 

2. Light up with LEDs
Switch the light bulbs to energy-savings ones next time they need changing. They last up to 10 times longer than ordinary bulbs. You can get them for around £3 in Home Bargains /B&M. Even if you swap them out slowly, you will save money in the long run.

3. Stop energy-sucking on standby
Switch off appliances on standby, and you could save around £30 a year. Almost all electrical appliances can be turned off at the plug without upsetting their programming. Just check with satellite and digital TV recorders – some may need to stay switched on, or they won’t record your favourite programmes. We don’t want you missing Strictly!
]]> 2021-02-11 00:17:57 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1190204607 Free Period Products WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1191913734 If you are in need of free sanitary products, you can request a three months supply by filling out this survey money form. Products will be discreetly delivered by RoyalMail to your home, but can take 2-3 weeks to arrive. You must be a resident of West Dunbartonshire to apply!]]> 2021-02-11 12:33:54 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1191913734 Baby Cost Calculator WDYL https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1191938298 Your tiny bundle of joy comes with a not-so-tiny list of requirements. From cots to clothes, to car seats, the costs can add up quickly. This calculator can help you plan for expected costs along the way.]]> 2021-02-11 12:41:28 UTC https://padlet.com/WDYL/moneyhub/wish/1191938298