One in 10 Scots left with no money after paying essential expenses
The new research comes from Citizens Advice Scotland
One in 10 Scots are left with no money at all after covering essential monthly expenses, according to new analysis from Citizens Advice Scotland.
The findings - based on a poll by YouGov - come before the rise in the energy price cap in October.
Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) says that 10% of the country's population find themselves penniless after covering taxes, housing, utilities and food.
It estimates that this works out to around 452,958 people based on Scotland's population.
A further 18% of those polled said they had less than £125 left over each month after paying essential expenses - with CAS estimating around 1.2 million are in the same position across Scotland.
Stark warning
It is warning that people are facing a "financial cliff edge" this autumn ahead of the energy price cap increasing to £3,549 next month.
The charity has launched a new campaign - Our Advice Adds Up - which will encourage people to seek advice if they are struggling with the cost of living.
CAS chief executive, Derek Mitchell, said: "People are facing a devastating financial cliff edge this autumn, as energy bills soar and inflation shows no signs of slowing down.
"It's important to understand what this actually means for people. Half a million people have nothing left after covering essential bills - they literally cannot afford another big increase in bills and prices.
"Over a million people have less than £125 left over - and next month average monthly bills are going up by £169.
"That's why we've launched Our Advice Adds Up to encourage people to seek advice if they are struggling with the cost of living.
"People can get help from their local CAB, or check online resources like our public advice site, www.moneymap.scot or www.checkmycounciltax.scot."
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