Scotland's highest village gets new advice service

The cost of fuel is a particular concern for residents in Wanlockhead

Residents in Scotland's highest village are being offered a pioneering digital appointment system with Dumfries and Galloway's Citizens Advice Service (CAS).

Wanlockhead Community Centre has teamed up with the local bureau to provide remote advice sessions via video link.

The village is one of the most remote in the region and faces challenges relating to isolation, fuel poverty and digital exclusion.

Advice service chief executive Phil Stewart hopes that the trial could act as a blueprint for a wider roll-out. He said: "This could be an ideal way for all of our remote communities to access our lifeline advice service, which meets one of our guiding values of leaving nobody behind."

Volunteers will be on hand to offer support for those struggling with IT

The idea for the sessions was based on feedback from residents who had requested drop-in sessions at the community centre.

As Scotland's highest village, temperatures can drop sharply during the winter months, and the cost of fuel has been raised as a particular concern for residents.

Carole Kilshaw is the community centre's engagement and development officer and said that there would be additional support for those with limited computer skills.

She said: "Don't be nervous, come along.

"We have private room facilities and we are always on hand to help.

"We can take things slowly and there are lots of other things we can help with, such as setting up an email address for you or learning how to use internet shopping and more."

Advice session appointments are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 13:30, 14:30 and 15:30.