We are living in a time of uncertainty and I recognise that some of you reading this may be struggling with your finances, with your mental health, or possibly both.
Mental health concerns continue to be a significant focus of our efforts locally.
I know I have been affected by the rising cost of living and I’ve seen my spending habits changing.
Recent weeks = it feels like months – have seen a significant squeeze on our spending.
I also know that the ‘cost of living crisis’ right at the tail end of the pandemic was the last thing we needed and that’s had effects on my own wellbeing too.
I’m writing this to let you know that it’s not just you that’s affected and to let you know that there’s help, support and advice out there if you need it to get you through.
Community can tackle challenges together
In my time as your inspector at Tillydrone I’ve been overcome by the generosity and togetherness of this community.
I would like to remind you of the importance of looking out for and supporting one another other during this challenging period.
There are still challenges ahead that we have to face but we are ALL part of this community and will tackle them together.
I’ve found great support from, and recognised the importance of, socialising with friends and family.
Opening up to them about how I am feeling helps me to realise that I am not the only one who has struggled and this provides me with much-needed comfort.
Breathing Space (0800 838587), The Samaritans (116 123) and other national charities can be reached out to also.
A confidential and helpful conversation can be had with anyone suffering from low mood, depression or anxiety.
We’re lucky too that locally we can turn to our partners at Alcohol and Drugs Action in Woodside where further support is also available for those in need.
Financial support is available too.
Don’t turn to crime over cost of living
I know there has been an increase in shopliftings reported, which we are tackling.
Some of you may have considered committing crime to make ends meet.
I hope that’s not in your thoughts but for those of you who are struggling, assistance, in the form of a grant, can come from the Scottish Welfare Fund via Aberdeen City Council.
The government has pledged £400 to help with our energy bills and further national schemes are also available via the Scottish government website offering financial support.
Locally our friends in Tillydrone at the Lighthouse Support Centre, together with local religious groups, do a great job running foodbanks for the hardest hit.
There are other similar schemes supporting residents throughout the city.
Those of you who are parents will be aware of the expense of the summer holiday period too.
As an alternative to some of the more pricey activities, I’ve found that my two are just as engaged with a walk in the local forest, a trip to the park or a cycle on a trail.
All these activities and more are free and you may even enjoy them too.
For more information on any of the above support services and schemes available visit the Aberdeen City Council website.
