At HISA, we understand that managing money as a student can be tough. Whether it’s balancing your budget, dealing with unexpected costs, or trying to understand what financial support you're entitled to, you’re not alone. While we’re here to help, we also know that sometimes it’s useful to speak to specialist organisations outside of HISA and UHI.
Below, you’ll find a list of trusted external organisations that offer free, confidential, and impartial advice on a wide range of money-related topics. These services are open to students across Scotland and the UK, and can be a great source of support when you need it most.
What kind of help can they offer?
Depending on the organisation, support might include:
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Budgeting tools and money management advice
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Help with debt, including repayment plans and negotiating with creditors
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Guidance on benefits, grants, and other financial entitlements
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Support with crisis situations such as eviction, fuel poverty, or food insecurity
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Tips on saving money and avoiding common financial pitfalls
Some of the organisations we recommend include:
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Citizens Advice Scotland – Offers advice on benefits, debt, housing, and more.
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StepChange – A leading debt charity offering tailored debt advice and solutions.
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MoneyHelper – A government-backed service providing tools and tips on budgeting, saving, and borrowing.
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Shelter Scotland - Provides free advice, advocacy, and support to people facing housing issues and homelessness.
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Turn2us – Helps people in financial hardship access welfare benefits and charitable grants.
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Money Advice Scotland - Free, impartial support connecting people to regulated money advice services and helpful online financial tools.
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Save the Student - A student-focused website with money-saving tips, budgeting tools, student finance guides, and advice on dealing with hardship.
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Trussell Trust – Find your nearest food bank and learn how to access emergency food support.
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Money Wellness - Free, personalised support with debt solutions, budgeting, benefits, and money worries online or by phone. They offer tailored support for harder-to-reach groups, including translation services for 240 languages.
Highlands and Islands Residents
Need help figuring out where to start?
If you’re unsure which organisation is right for your situation, you can always contact the HISA Advice Service first. We’ll listen, help you understand your options, and signpost you to the most appropriate support, whether that’s within UHI or beyond.