A VOLUNTEER-RUN service providing advice on money worries and helping people in need has been visited by the county’s MSP.

St Anne’s Scottish Episcopal and Methodist Church and the Salvation Army joined forces to create Dunbar Debt Advice Service at the beginning of the pandemic.

The group, which aims to provide free, confidential and impartial advice, has since received more than 30 referrals and has supported people from a range of backgrounds, including women fleeing from abuse and individuals who have lost work during the pandemic.

Paul McLennan, MSP for East Lothian, was impressed by their efforts and visited the group to find out more about what they do.

He said: “As a service entirely run by volunteers, I am highly impressed by the growth of the service in a short space of time and absolutely see the value in the work that they are doing in helping tackle poverty in East Lothian. During our discussions, we explored routes I can support the service to continue to grow whilst still offering the high level of service residents can access today.

“I look forward to supporting this growth as both a member of the community and in my role as East Lothian MSP.”

For more information, contact dunbardas@salvationarmy.org.uk