14 August 2025 

Guest Writer: Laura Dunnachie

After completing my exams at school I went onto studying law at the University of Strathclyde, and I very much imagined a future in corporate law. A summer placement at a corporate firm gave me a valuable insight into that world — but it also helped me realise it wasn’t the right fit for me. At the same time, I was volunteering with the University’s Law Clinic, where I supported people with real-life legal issues. That experience sparked something different in me: a genuine interest in helping people navigate complex systems and access their rights.

After graduating I began volunteering with Shelter Scotland in Stirling, working alongside a Housing, Money, and Debt Adviser. This role introduced me to the advice sector and gave me hands-on experience supporting people facing housing and financial challenges. It was a steep learning curve, but it confirmed that this was the kind of work I wanted to do.

That volunteering experience proved invaluable when a paid opportunity came up within Shelter’s Advice Services team. I was successful in securing the role of Housing, Money, Debt, and Benefits Adviser — a position that allowed me to develop my skills further and support people in a more structured way. After a year, I moved into a role with Stirling Council’s Advice Services team in 2017. Initially on a temporary contract, I later secured a permanent position and, in 2022, was promoted to Senior Adviser.

Throughout my career, I’ve seen first-hand how vital money and debt advice is. One of the most impactful aspects of our work is carrying out benefit checks to maximise people’s income — something that can make a significant difference to someone’s financial stability. Many people are unaware of what they’re entitled to, and helping them access that support can be life-changing.

Debt advice is another crucial part of what we do, we help people regain control, reduce stress, and find a way forward. Whether it’s negotiating with creditors, setting up repayment plans, or simply providing a listening ear, our role is to offer practical solutions and reassurance.

What I value most about this sector is its focus on empowerment. We don’t just give advice — we help people understand their options, make informed decisions, and build resilience. It’s a sector that combines technical knowledge with empathy, and that’s what makes it so rewarding.

For anyone considering a career in money and debt advice, I’d say this: it’s a challenging but deeply meaningful path. You’ll never stop learning, and you’ll have the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.