Many people are worried about their mortgage payments right now. With interest rates getting higher, you might feel anxious about making all your monthly payments, but help is available.

We spoke to East Renfrewshire Council’s Money Advice & Right team about what support is out there for anyone struggling with their mortgage payments. Here’s what they had to say:

“Over the past twelve months, we’ve seen an increase in residents reaching out to us about their mortgage payments. With interest rates remaining high, lots of people are facing financial difficulties for the first time in their lives, so we want to make sure that they know we are here to help.

"People may be under the impression that we’re only here for those claiming benefits or in extreme poverty, but we help people across East Renfrewshire on a wide range of issues. So our message is that whatever your circumstances, our advisors are in place and ready to help. We know it’s easy to bury your head in the sand, but the sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can help.

"For mortgage struggles, some of the ways our team can help include looking at ways to maximise your income to ensure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to. Your income and expenditure can be reviewed to help determine if your mortgage repayments are affordable for you and to help to budget for this."

If you’re in arrears, they can help you to negotiate a repayment arrangement with your lender and advise you of the options available to help you address your mortgage arrears, along with any other debt you may have.

They can also assist you in dealing with your lender if they are threatening to take or have already started taking action against you. And if you’re entitled to any of the government support schemes, they can help you apply.

So if you’re struggling, please get in touch with them. Call 0141 577 8420, email mart@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk or visit eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support. You can also access support from East Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau by calling 0141 881 2032.”