SCOTLAND’S largest digital advice agency has launched a new helpline to ease pressure on MPs, MSPs and councillors by tackling casework backlogs.
Advice Direct Scotland, a registered charity, has set up the service to support constituents in need, with expert advisers handling issues related to benefits, employment, housing and neighbourhood disputes.
The helpline is designed to relieve overstretched caseworkers by providing direct assistance to those seeking help.
The charity already handles more than 900,000 customer contacts a year, providing free, impartial advice to people across Scotland, regardless of their circumstances.
Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said:
“This is a real lifeline for councillors, caseworkers and the constituents they serve.
“We want to make sure people know we are here to help.
“We can take on casework for you — this is about supporting elected representatives to support their communities.
“Our goal is to ensure no one feels left behind. By providing direct access to advice and support, we can make a real difference in people’s lives.”
The charity also provides a direct line to energy suppliers and the Energy Ombudsman, ensuring swift resolution of billing or meter issues.
If a complaint remains unresolved for more than eight weeks, Advice Direct Scotland can escalate it to the Ombudsman.
Through access to the Extra Help Unit (EHU), the charity can also assist vulnerable customers at risk of power disconnection, including those struggling to top up meters or facing unexpected outages.
Beyond energy concerns, the organisation supports constituents with consumer rights issues, Trading Standards referrals, and benefit checks, including applications for Pension Credit.
Advice Direct Scotland provides consumer support through advice.scot, energyadvice.scot, consumeradvice.scot, moneyadvice.scot and taxadvice.scot.
The dedicated helpline for MPs, MSPs and councillors can be contacted on 0808 800 0502 or via email at Msp.And.Mp@advice.scot.
