Households across Ayrshire are facing yet another rise in council tax this year as local authorities set their budgets for 2026/27. Recent announcements show that: North Ayrshire Council has confirmed an 8.5% rise after reducing an originally proposed 12% increase. East Ayrshire Council has agreed on 6.9% - the lowest increase among the Ayrshire councils so far. South Ayrshire Council meets on Thursday, March 5 to finalise its 2026/27 budget. These rises reflect the tough financial pressures councils are under to maintain services like bin collections, care, roads and schools - but for many families and individuals they’re yet another squeeze on already tight household budgets. Could You Reduce Your Council Tax Bill? A higher bill doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have to pay the full amount. In Scotland, there are a range of reductions, discounts, and exemptions that can significantly reduce what you owe - or in some cases mean you don’t need to pay at all: 1. Council Tax Reduction (CTR) for Low Income Households If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you could get help under your council’s Council Tax Reduction scheme. The amount you get depends on your income, savings and circumstances - but many households receive substantial support. 2. Single Occupancy Discount If you’re the only adult (18 or over) living in your home, you’re usually entitled to a 25% discount on your council tax bill. 3. Exemptions and Other Discounts There are numerous other ways to pay less, including: Students or student households, who may be exempt altogether. People with a disability, through a disabled band reduction. Care leavers, carers, under-18s, and those with severely mentally impaired status. Empty or second homes, which may qualify for special discounts or different charges. The rules around these vary a bit from council to council, and you usually need to claim these discounts as they aren’t always applied automatically. How CHAP Can Help It’s easy to miss out on help you’re entitled to, especially when rules can be confusing and councils often have differing eligibility criteria. To help you, our advisers can: Check whether you are eligible for any reductions, discounts, or exemptions. Assist with filling in application forms correctly. Advise you on how to appeal if your local council turns you down. Help with a debt repayment plan if you have council tax arrears. Get in touch with CHAP to arrange an appointment with one of our qualified advisers to check your eligibility and talk you through options that might apply to your circumstances. Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 Whether you’re on a low income, living alone, a student, a carer or just unsure about your council tax bill, please get in touch. We’re here to help, and all our services are free, independent and confidential.

Gambling is often talked about in financial terms - wins, losses, debt, and bills. But for many people, the impact of gambling goes far beyond money. Across Ayrshire, individuals and families can experience gambling-related harm that affects their mental wellbeing, relationships, and sense of stability. Financial pressure is frequently only one part of a much wider picture. Gambling harm can be linked with: Growing debt and difficulty keeping up with bills Rent arrears or concerns about housing security Stress, anxiety, and low mood Sleep disruption and day-to-day functioning Strain on family and personal relationships In some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide For some, these pressures can become overwhelming. Feelings of shame, secrecy, or being 'trapped' often prevent people from speaking openly or seeking support early. Importantly, gambling harm does not have a single 'type' of person. It can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Why We’re Exploring Gambling Harm in Ayrshire As part of a short-term exploratory project, CHAP is working to better understand how gambling harm is experienced within Ayrshire communities - particularly where financial stress, housing insecurity, and mental health challenges overlap. While national research highlights strong links between gambling difficulties, debt, and emotional distress, local insights are limited. Hearing directly from people with lived experience (including the impact on mental health and thoughts of suicide) is essential if services are to respond effectively and compassionately. Do Any of These Feel Familiar? Gambling-related harm can develop gradually and may not always be immediately obvious. Some common experiences include: Gambling more frequently or spending more than intended Trying to recover losses by continuing to gamble Hiding gambling from family or friends Borrowing money or relying on credit Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or preoccupied with money Feeling stuck, hopeless, or under significant pressure Experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide These experiences are more common than many people realise, but support is available. Share Your Experience Anonymously To help us build a clearer picture of local needs, we’re inviting people across Ayrshire who have been affected by gambling to complete a short, anonymous questionnaire. The survey is designed to: Better understand how gambling harm is impacting people locally Identify gaps in support and barriers to seeking help Inform future services and prevention work Participation only takes a couple of minutes and is completely anonymous. You can take part by clicking here . Support Is Available If gambling is affecting your finances, housing, or wellbeing - including causing distress or thoughts of self-harm - you can speak to CHAP for free, confidential, and non-judgemental advice. We can help with issues such as: Debt and financial difficulties Rent arrears and housing concerns Benefit checks and income maximisation Budgeting and financial stability 📞 Call Freephone 030 0002 0002 Specialist gambling support is also available via the GamCare National Gambling Helpline: 📞 0808 8020 133 (24/7) 🌐 www.gamcare.org.uk If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed If gambling, debt, or related pressures are affecting your mental health, you are not alone. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, immediate support is available: Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7) NHS 24 - 111 Mental Health Hub In an emergency, call 999 Gambling harm can affect anyone. Reaching out early can prevent issues from escalating and is a sign of strength, not failure.