Welcome to this week's Financial Inclusion Network news

The Financial Inclusion Network is an informal group of over 250 members taken from the Public and Third Sectors which covers all areas of South Lanarkshire.  This network is to share information from a wide range of themes. We hope to provide a new update each week that can be accessed by all members at any time to see what is going on in the area under the headings below. If you would like an item included within our weekly news, please complete our short online form here - https://forms.office.com/e/Ht5w7iAuFi.  For further information, please email communities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 

Money is not the only problem – Education

Limiting the Cost of the School Day is at the heart of every school. Schools are determined poverty will not become a barrier to success in school.

https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/directory/182/money_is_not_the_only_problem/category/520

South Lanarkshire Council – The Lived Experience Fund

The Lived Experience Fund supports local organisations to capture the voices of South Lanarkshire residents to help share better services and policies.  Grants of up to £500 are available that supports residents facing poverty, inequality or deprivation.

For further information and to apply visit the Community Planning website https://orlo.uk/Uhb2k

AbilityNet – Free BT Digital Skills Support Sessions

If you are over 65 years of age and looking to build your digital skills, we offer free digital skills sessions throughout Lanarkshire. Free sessions on offer include: • Getting to know your Smartphone or Tablet • Staying Safer Online • Shopping Online • Using Social Media such as Facebook, • How to access Public Services for example Gov.UK • How to make a video call • How to manage your health online • How to bank online.

For more information call our helpline on 0300 180 0028 during UK office hours or send an email to digitalskills@abilitynet.org.uk or you can find out more on our website https://abilitynet.org.uk/free-tech-support-and-info/digital-skills-training-people-over-65

The Wise Group – Home Energy Advice Team (HEAT)

As the energy price cap is set to rise again it is necessary to remind you of our HEAT service. We can support households who are struggling to pay their energy bills/overcome fuel poverty.  Our dedicated team of HEAT Mentors can provide holistic, independent, and tailored assistance to vulnerable households affected by the ongoing energy crisis.

For more information contact us at 0800 092 9002 or at heat@thewisegroup.co.uk