2 September 2025

As we explore the different roles that make up the invaluable money and debt advice sector, I’m excited to share my story as part of our blog series. My journey to becoming a Policy Officer at Money Advice Scotland has not been linear, but every step has shaped my passion for tackling social inequalities and supporting the incredible work of money advisers across Scotland.

I left high school eager to make a difference, initially pursuing Social Work at university. However, I quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit for me. Instead, I took up an admin apprenticeship with East Renfrewshire Council at the Community and Social Health Partnership. There, I witnessed the impact low income can have on people’s lives and this helped me develop a desire to understand and address these challenges.

This experience inspired me to return to education, studying Social Sciences at college with the goal of earning a degree in Social Policy at Glasgow University. I achieved that goal, and during my time at university, I dove deep into social policy issues. My true passion emerged in studying social inequalities, particularly around gender and poverty, and the practical implementation of policies to address them. Alongside my studies, I volunteered with inspiring organisations like Glasgow Women’s Library and Shelter Scotland. 

After graduating, I landed a role on the digital team at Money Advice Scotland. My work there focused on signposting people to the right resources and support, rather than providing direct money advice. Even so, I saw the immense relief people expressed when they were guided to the help they needed. Those moments gave me a small glimpse of the incredible work money advisers do, transforming lives by alleviating the stress and anxiety of financial concerns. It was then that I became truly passionate about the debt advice sector.

When changes in funding opened an opportunity to join the policy team at Money Advice Scotland, it felt like a dream come true. Now, I work directly with our members (dedicated money advisers across Scotland) to ensure their voices, and those of their clients, are heard by decision-makers. I love interacting with our members, advocating for policies that make a real difference, and supporting the incredible work of advisers who transform lives every day.

My journey to this point has been varied but each experience taught me something new about resilience, empathy, and the power of policy to drive change. The money and debt advice sector is full of passionate people who’ve taken their own unique paths to create meaningful impact. I’m proud to be part of it, and I hope my story inspires others to explore a career in this rewarding field.