Easter Holidays in Ayrshire
Laura Houston • 28 March 2024
It seems like Christmas was just last week – how is it Easter already??
With the Easter break upon us, families will no doubt be looking for ideas to keep the kids entertained whilst they are off school. Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald have put together a handy list of suggestions, all of which are free entry and accessible to those living in North Ayrshire, their list includes:
- Eglinton Park, Irvine
- Dean Park, Kilmarnock
- Ardrossan Beach Front
- Maritime Museum, Irvine
- Dumfries House, Cumnock
And if you are thinking of heading to Irvine Beach Park, Coastwatch is holding a free Easter Egg hunt on Easter Saturday 20th April at 12 noon. The hunt is open to kids of all ages. Hunters should gather at 12, for a 12.15pm start.
Each child will receive an Easter egg at the end but they must register first. To register phone Coastwatch Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm on 01294 271855 with name, address, and number of kids. The hunt starts and ends at the Pavilion, going through Beach Park and back along beach.
To read the full article and see all recommendations, follow the link to the article here.
CHAP will be closed from 5pm on Thursday 28th March and will reopen at 9am on Tuesday 2nd April. If you are concerned about anything whilst we are closed, please visit our website FAQs page where you will find guidance relating some emergency situations that can arise.
You can also call
030 0002 0002 where you can leave a voicemail and someone will respond when we reopen on Tuesday.
Do you want to make a real difference to people's lives? Information & Advice Officer x2 35 hours per week | Fixed-Term for 12 Months Salary: DOE CHAP is looking for two Information & Advice Officers to join our growing team and help support people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Every day, we work alongside individuals and families experiencing housing difficulties, financial hardship, debt problems and welfare rights issues. We provide free, independent advice, advocacy and representation, helping people understand their rights, access support and overcome barriers. In 2025 alone, CHAP secured over £4.2 million in financial gains for people across Ayrshire. We are proud of the difference we make, but we know there is more to do. Demand for our services continues to grow, with increasing numbers of people seeking support with housing, debt and welfare rights issues. These new posts will help us reach more people, earlier, and provide the support they need before problems reach crisis point. About CHAP CHAP is an independent charity providing specialist housing, welfare rights and debt advice throughout Ayrshire. As the only organisation in Ayrshire accredited to deliver Scottish National Standards Type III advice across all three areas, we provide practical support to people facing a wide range of challenges. We help people understand their options, navigate complex systems and access the support they need. We exist to provide hope and to stand alongside our clients as they deal with some of life's most difficult circumstances. About the Role This role involves working directly with individuals and families experiencing a range of housing, welfare rights, and financial issues. You will: Provide information, advice and advocacy to clients. Support people to understand their rights, options and available support. Work with clients to identify solutions and achieve positive outcomes. Represent and negotiate on behalf of clients where appropriate. Manage a varied caseload and maintain accurate case records. Work closely with partner organisations to ensure clients receive the support they need. Contribute to the delivery of a high-quality advice and advocacy service. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. About You We are looking for people who share our commitment to helping others and who believe everyone deserves access to high-quality advice and support. You may already have experience in advice work, advocacy, housing, welfare rights, debt advice, employability, social work, community development, support work or similar fields. Most importantly, you will be someone who: Has experience supporting people facing difficult circumstances. Can build positive relationships and communicate effectively with a wide range of people. Is organised, reliable and able to manage a varied workload. Has a genuine desire to help others. Is willing to learn and develop new skills. Can work independently and as part of a supportive team. Experience of welfare rights, debt advice, housing advice or advocacy work would be advantageous. However, we are committed to supporting the successful candidates through training, supervision and professional development. In Return We Offer The opportunity to make a genuine difference in people's lives A supportive and experienced team environment Ongoing training, supervision and professional development. The opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills within an accredited advice service. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential as travel throughout Ayrshire will be required. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role to: enquiries@chap.org.uk . Alternatively, you can download an application form , complete it and email to enquiries@chap.org.uk . You can also download our recruitment privacy policy . Information and Advice Officer Job Description Person Specification Closing Date: Noon Friday 26th June 2026 Interviews: Thursday 9th July 2026 This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Our second Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk took place on Friday 22nd May and what a day it was! Following the success of our inaugural event in 2025, we were thrilled to see K2C return bigger and better this year, with participants joining us for all or part of the updated 18-mile route through Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning, Stevenston and Saltcoats before reaching the finish line at our main office in Ardrossan. Thankfully, the weather remained dry throughout the day and temperatures were cooler and kinder to our walkers than last year's event, which took place during one of the warmest days of the month. The more comfortable conditions allowed participants to enjoy the journey and let the conversations flow. We were particularly delighted to be joined by fantastic workplace teams from Morgan Sindall Construction and We Work For Families , whose enthusiasm, determination and fundraising efforts helped make the day such a success. A special thank you must also go to KA Leisure , whose support for the event was invaluable. Not only did they kindly allow us to use facilities at The Portal in Irvine as a key stop on the route, but they also supplied the much-loved Activator Bus , which provided encouragement and and motivation for walkers as they tackled the final stage of the journey towards the finishing point. A Huge Thank You We're thrilled to share that this year's K2C event has raised a total of £1,385 so far. We would like to thank every single person who took part, made a donation, shared our social media posts, sponsored a walker, volunteered their time, or simply cheered us on as we passed through their area. And of course, thanks to all the CHAP staff and trustees for their hard work and commitment for making this year's K2C the best yet! As always, events like Killie 2 Coast are only possible thanks to the generosity of local businesses and community partners. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors and supporters who helped keep walkers fuelled, hydrated and motivated throughout the day: Branding Hub Ayr Brownings the Bakers Dreghorn Library Greggs Foundation Morgan Sindall Construction Morrisons SK Tes If you’d still like to make a contribution, we'll be able to accept donations until 13th June - JUSTGIVING All donations received will go toward helping CHAP continue delivering free advice and support to individuals and families in need across Ayrshire. Thank you to everyone who helped make Killie 2 Coast 2026 such a memorable day. We look forward to building on this year's success and welcoming even more walkers for Killie 2 Coast 2 027!
Many individuals and families across North Ayrshire are experiencing increasing pressures around finances, wellbeing, housing and day-to-day living. Money Max has been created to provide practical, person-centred support that helps people overcome barriers, improve financial wellbeing and access the right services for their needs.
We’re delighted to announce that CHAP’s Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk is returning on Friday 22nd May 2026 - and we’d love you to be part of it. Following the incredible success of our inaugural event in 2025, this year’s walk promises to be even bigger and better. With support from our partners at KA Leisure, we're aiming to build on the fantastic community spirit and energy of the participants that made last year so memorable. A Look Back at 2025 One of the highlights of 2025 was our first ever Killie 2 Coast walk, which brought together staff, trustees and supporters for an inspiring 18-mile journey from Kilmarnock to Ardrossan. Taking place during one of the warmest days of the month, participants set off from our outreach hub at CentreStage and made their way to the coast, raising over £2,500 for CHAP’s frontline advice services. More than just a fundraiser, the event created a real sense of togetherness as walkers shared conversations, laughter and encouragement along the way. It also became clear that many found the day to not only be a great physical challenge, but also a fantastic boost for mental wellbeing. To everyone who took part, donated or supported the event last year - thank you. You made it something truly special! What to Expect in 2026 This year, we’ll once again be taking on the 18-mile walk , starting from CentreStage in Kilmarnock at 9am , and making our way through Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning and Stevenston before finishing along the coast from Saltcoats to Ardrossan. The full route takes approximately 6.5 hours , but you don’t need to complete the entire distance to get involved. Walk Your Way Whether you’re looking for a challenge or simply want to be part of the day, Killie 2 Coast is designed to be inclusive and flexible: Take on the full 18-mile route if you’re up for the challenge Or join us at one of the towns along the way and walk a section that suits you We’ll be following the main transport routes through key locations including Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning and Stevenston, making it easy for local people to join in and be part of the journey. Why We Walk Every step taken helps raise vital funds for CHAP’s services, supporting people across Ayrshire who are facing housing issues, debt and financial hardship. By taking part, you’ll be helping us continue to provide free, independent, and confidential advice to those who need it most.
People across Scotland who receive certain Social Security Scotland payments will see their payments increase from April 2026 as part of the Scottish Government’s annual up-rating process. The new rates reflect inflation and are intended to help people keep up with rising living costs. The key message for anyone already receiving these payments is simple: you do not need to do anything. If you already get an eligible payment, the increase should be applied automatically. For many households, any increase will be welcome. But with the cost of essentials still placing pressure on budgets, it is more important than ever that people know what support is available and make sure they are receiving everything they are entitled to. Which payments are increasing? Below is a summary of some of the key updated payment rates from April 2026. Adult Disability Payment Adult Disability Payment helps with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition for people of working age in Scotland. It includes a daily living component and a mobility component. New Adult Disability Payment rates for 2026/27: Daily Living Component - Enhanced Rate: £114.60 per week Daily Living Component - Standard Rate: £76.70 per week Mobility Component - Enhanced Rate: £80.00 per week Mobility Component - Standard Rate: £30.30 per week Transitional Rate - £30.30 per week Carer Support Carer Support is available for people who provide regular and substantial care to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit. In Scotland, this support is replacing Carer’s Allowance and includes different components depending on individual circumstances. New Carer Support rates for 2026/27: Carer Support Payment component: £86.45 per week Carer Additional Person Payment component: £10.40 per week Scottish Carer Supplement component: £11.70 per week The earnings limit for Carer Support will also increase to £204 per week. This is especially important for unpaid carers who are trying to balance caring responsibilities with part-time work or other commitments. Child Disability Payment Child Disability Payment helps with the extra costs of caring for a disabled child or young person in Scotland. It can include both a care component and a mobility component, depending on the child’s needs. New Child Disability Payment rates for 2026/27: Care Component - Highest Rate: £114.60 per week Care Component - Middle Rate: £76.70 per week Care Component - Lowest Rate: £30.30 per week Mobility Component - Higher Rate: £80.00 per week Mobility Component -Lower Rate: £30.30 per week The related Child Winter Heating Payment will also increase to £265.50. Pension Age Disability Payment Pension Age Disability Payment is for older people in Scotland who have a disability or long-term health condition and need help with personal care or supervision to stay safe. It has replaced Attendance Allowance in Scotland. New Pension Age Disability Payment rates for 2026/27: Higher Rate: £114.60 per week Lower Rate: £76.70 per week For people who are being transferred from Attendance Allowance, Social Security Scotland has also made clear that this process is automatic, with no need to reapply. These increases should be made automatically from April 2026 for all eligible existing claimants. Reminder: existing claimants do not need to contact Social Security Scotland or make a new application as the new rates will be applied automatically. For full details of the updated rates and wider financial support available, please visit the Scottish Government website . Rising support matters - but many households are still under pressure While any increase in support is important, we know that many households are still facing serious financial pressure. Across Scotland and the wider UK, too many people are already trying to manage on budgets that have been stretched beyond what feels sustainable. Partly due to world events, we're all experiencing rising costs for essentials such as energy, rent, fuel, food and household bills. This accumulation of financial pressures can leave many people in a very difficult position. We agree with the wider message being shared by many advice organisations across the country: more support is still needed for households at crisis point. In particular, there is a strong case for: better targeted help for people struggling most with energy bills more action to address rising rent and housing costs faster support for people trapped in debt or financial hardship These are not just policy issues - they affect real people, real families and real communities every day. CHAP is here to help At CHAP, we know that even when support is available, it's not always easy to know what you might be entitled to, how to apply, or what to do when money is tight. If you're struggling financially, our fully accredited team of advisers may be able to help. We can: carry out benefit eligibility checks help make sure you are claiming everything you are entitled to provide support with money worries, debt, housing issues and wider financial pressures If you are worried about your finances, you don't have to deal with it alone. Reach out to us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 to arrange an appointment.
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Do you want to make a real difference to people's lives? Information & Advice Officer x2 35 hours per week | Fixed-Term for 12 Months Salary: DOE CHAP is looking for two Information & Advice Officers to join our growing team and help support people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Every day, we work alongside individuals and families experiencing housing difficulties, financial hardship, debt problems and welfare rights issues. We provide free, independent advice, advocacy and representation, helping people understand their rights, access support and overcome barriers. In 2025 alone, CHAP secured over £4.2 million in financial gains for people across Ayrshire. We are proud of the difference we make, but we know there is more to do. Demand for our services continues to grow, with increasing numbers of people seeking support with housing, debt and welfare rights issues. These new posts will help us reach more people, earlier, and provide the support they need before problems reach crisis point. About CHAP CHAP is an independent charity providing specialist housing, welfare rights and debt advice throughout Ayrshire. As the only organisation in Ayrshire accredited to deliver Scottish National Standards Type III advice across all three areas, we provide practical support to people facing a wide range of challenges. We help people understand their options, navigate complex systems and access the support they need. We exist to provide hope and to stand alongside our clients as they deal with some of life's most difficult circumstances. About the Role This role involves working directly with individuals and families experiencing a range of housing, welfare rights, and financial issues. You will: Provide information, advice and advocacy to clients. Support people to understand their rights, options and available support. Work with clients to identify solutions and achieve positive outcomes. Represent and negotiate on behalf of clients where appropriate. Manage a varied caseload and maintain accurate case records. Work closely with partner organisations to ensure clients receive the support they need. Contribute to the delivery of a high-quality advice and advocacy service. This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. Whether helping someone avoid homelessness, maximise their income, challenge a decision or overcome debt problems, your work will make a genuine difference. About You We are looking for people who share our commitment to helping others and who believe everyone deserves access to high-quality advice and support. You may already have experience in advice work, advocacy, housing, welfare rights, debt advice, employability, social work, community development, support work or similar fields. Most importantly, you will be someone who: Has experience supporting people facing difficult circumstances. Can build positive relationships and communicate effectively with a wide range of people. Is organised, reliable and able to manage a varied workload. Has a genuine desire to help others. Is willing to learn and develop new skills. Can work independently and as part of a supportive team. Experience of welfare rights, debt advice, housing advice or advocacy work would be advantageous. However, we are committed to supporting the successful candidates through training, supervision and professional development. In Return We Offer The opportunity to make a genuine difference in people's lives A supportive and experienced team environment Ongoing training, supervision and professional development. The opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills within an accredited advice service. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential as travel throughout Ayrshire will be required. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact us on 030 0002 0002 . To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role to: enquiries@chap.org.uk . Alternatively, you can download an application form , complete it and email to enquiries@chap.org.uk . You can also download our recruitment privacy policy . Information and Advice Officer Job Description Person Specification Closing Date: Noon Friday 26th June 2026 Interviews: Thursday 9th July 2026 This post is subject to satisfactory references and PVG Scheme membership. CHAP is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Our second Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk took place on Friday 22nd May and what a day it was! Following the success of our inaugural event in 2025, we were thrilled to see K2C return bigger and better this year, with participants joining us for all or part of the updated 18-mile route through Dreghorn, Irvine, Kilwinning, Stevenston and Saltcoats before reaching the finish line at our main office in Ardrossan. Thankfully, the weather remained dry throughout the day and temperatures were cooler and kinder to our walkers than last year's event, which took place during one of the warmest days of the month. The more comfortable conditions allowed participants to enjoy the journey and let the conversations flow. We were particularly delighted to be joined by fantastic workplace teams from Morgan Sindall Construction and We Work For Families , whose enthusiasm, determination and fundraising efforts helped make the day such a success. A special thank you must also go to KA Leisure , whose support for the event was invaluable. Not only did they kindly allow us to use facilities at The Portal in Irvine as a key stop on the route, but they also supplied the much-loved Activator Bus , which provided encouragement and and motivation for walkers as they tackled the final stage of the journey towards the finishing point. A Huge Thank You We're thrilled to share that this year's K2C event has raised a total of £1,385 so far. We would like to thank every single person who took part, made a donation, shared our social media posts, sponsored a walker, volunteered their time, or simply cheered us on as we passed through their area. And of course, thanks to all the CHAP staff and trustees for their hard work and commitment for making this year's K2C the best yet! As always, events like Killie 2 Coast are only possible thanks to the generosity of local businesses and community partners. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors and supporters who helped keep walkers fuelled, hydrated and motivated throughout the day: Branding Hub Ayr Brownings the Bakers Dreghorn Library Greggs Foundation Morgan Sindall Construction Morrisons SK Tes If you’d still like to make a contribution, we'll be able to accept donations until 13th June - JUSTGIVING All donations received will go toward helping CHAP continue delivering free advice and support to individuals and families in need across Ayrshire. Thank you to everyone who helped make Killie 2 Coast 2026 such a memorable day. We look forward to building on this year's success and welcoming even more walkers for Killie 2 Coast 2 027!
Many individuals and families across North Ayrshire are experiencing increasing pressures around finances, wellbeing, housing and day-to-day living. Money Max has been created to provide practical, person-centred support that helps people overcome barriers, improve financial wellbeing and access the right services for their needs.
