Charity finds nearly one third of Scots may need to take on debt to cover the costs of Christmas this year

13% of Scots surveyed in a recent charity report said they are worried they may have to rely on food banks this Christmas.

Nearly one third of people in Scotland may need to take on debt to cover the cost of Christmas this year, according to a recent charity survey.

2,000 people were surveyed by Censuswide for charity The Big Give, with 13% of Scottish residents also worried they may need to use food banks to help them manage over the festive period.

The findings also revealed nearly one quarter of Edinburgh residents surveyed are not looking forward to the holiday season this year, with money worries being the most common reason.

The Big Give Christmas Challenge, the UK’s biggest Christmas coordinated fundraising appeal, is supporting over 900 charities to raise funds with the unique offer of matching any donations made during the week of November 30 – December 7.

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The campaign is backed by celebrities such as Stephen Fry, Dame Judi Dench, Russell Brand.

Alex Day, Director of The Big Give said: “Our study shows that, sadly, people across Scotland and the rest of the UK are facing an imperfect storm; high fuel prices, chronic mental health problems, rising debt, loneliness and fears about Covid-19, meaning that, for many, this festive period will be a far cry from picture perfect scenes portrayed on Christmas cards.

“Some will rely on charities which will be further and further stretched as demand grows.”

The Christmas Challenge was launched in 2008 by Sir Alec Reed, founder of Reed Recruitment.

Last year, the campaign raised £20.1m for 764 charities.

Find out more: www.thebiggive.org.uk/christmas-challenge/