Building on successful pilot schemes funded in 2023-4, the additional funding will enable targeted advice on council tax debt to be provided in six new areas: West Lothian, East Lothian, Dumfries and Galloway, Highlands, Argyll and Bute and East Renfrewshire.

The pilot bureaux gave targeted advice on council tax debt as well as wider holistic support and also worked with councils to support best practice in debt collection.

The additional funding was announced by housing minister Paul McLennan on a visit to West Lothian Citizen’s Advice Bureau, in Livingston, which will use the funding to provide more adviser hours and appointments and extend help to more people using outreach locations to target the most vulnerable.

Mr McLennan said: “We know how worrying public sector debt can be for people in low-income households. Advice services can provide vital support to those with money worries and debt.

“Good working relationships with local authorities can be key and the Scottish government is working to support best practice across the whole of local government.

“The Scottish government has both legislated and acted to ensure that people who are financially vulnerable are protected and that debt collection is handled sensitively and appropriately.

“Ministers continue to encourage public bodies to promote empathy and dignity for people struggling with debt.”