Challenge Poverty Week
Challenge Poverty Week takes place from 5 - 9 October 2026 which is an opportunity to raise our voices against poverty, come together and showcase the support available across West Lothian.
Throughout the week, there will be a range of free events and activities where you can find out more about local support, connect with services and discover what's available for you, your family and your community.
Monday 5 October
Event Details
- Where: Join us online on West Lothian Council Facebook Page (opens new window)
- When: 2pm to 3pm
What to Expect
Join our online Ask the Advisor session to learn more about the Blue Badge Scheme in West Lothian. You can ask questions about eligibility, how to apply, using your badge and what to do if your application is unsuccessful, with answers from an experienced member of the team.
How to attend
Join us online on West Lothian Council Facebook Page (opens new window)
Event Details
- Where: Strathbrock Partnership Centre
- When: 2pm to 3pm
What to expect?
Are you in rent arrears or facing eviction, affected by the benefit cap or bedroom tax, or living in private accommodation where your rent isn't fully covered?
Struggling with energy costs or energy debt?
Help may be available. Come along for free advice and support, with information on benefits, Discretionary Housing Payments, energy support, court advice and local housing services. Find out what support you may be entitled to and get help with your housing and energy concerns.
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Tuesday 6 October
Event Details
- Where: Blackburn Partnership Centre
- When: 10am to 1pm
What to expect
Come along to our free jobs fair whether you are looking for your first job, thinking about a career change, returning to work, or want to see what is available.
You can meet employers from a wide range of industries across West Lothian, find out about current vacancies, ask questions, and explore opportunities that may suit you.
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Event Details
- Where: The School Bank West Lothian
- When: 1pm to 3pm
What to expect
The School Bank West Lothian will be opening their doors during Challenge Poverty Week 2026, giving you the chance to see behind the scenes of the support they provide to families across West Lothian.
Pop in to meet the team, ask questions and find out what goes into providing each school uniform pack.
How to attend
Reserve your free spot at the School Bank Open Day (opens new window)
Wednesday 7 October
Event Details
- Where: Join us online on West Lothian Council Facebook Page (opens new window)
- When: 10am to 12pm
What to expect
Ask the Advisor! Put your questions to West Lothian Council's Parental Employment Support Team at The Advice Shop during our Facebook session.
Check your entitlement to family benefits, help with childcare costs, School clothing grants/ free school meals, in-work benefits and more, with support available with applications if needed. Whether you're thinking about returning to work, starting a new job or already in employment, advice and support is available at every stage of your employment journey.
How to attend
Join us online on West Lothian Council Facebook Page (opens new window)
Thursday 9 October
Event Details
- Where: Jim Walker Partnership Centre
- When: 10am to 12pm
What to expect
Come along and speak to West Lothian Council's Parental Employment Support Team at The Advice Shop. Check your entitlement to family benefits, help with childcare costs, School clothing grants/ free school meals, in-work benefits and more, with support available with applications if needed. Whether you're thinking about returning to work, starting a new job or already in employment, advice and support is available at every stage of your employment journey.
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Event Details
- Where: The Hub, 10 Main Street, Fauldhouse, EH47 9LE
- When: 10am to 11.30am
What to expect
A welcoming space for parent carers of children and young people up to 16 with additional support needs to meet others, share experiences and access support.
The Advice Shop will also be joining the group to provide information and advice on Child Disability benefits.
Come along for a chance to connect, chat and find out more.
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Event Details
- Where: Livingston Centre
- When: 1pm to 3pm
What to expect
Come along and discover the free advice, support and financial help available to families in our community.
Meet Advice Shop, Carers of West Lothian and Kidzeco, who can offer benefits advice, carer support, family referrals, free groups and information on financial support.
Enjoy our fun True or False games, bust some myths and find out what support could be available to you and your family!
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Friday 9 October
Event Details
- Where: Jim Walker Partnership Centre
- When: 11am to 12pm
What to expect
Discover the range of volunteering opportunities available in your community through the Advice Shop Volunteering Pathway. Come along to find out how volunteering can help you gain skills, build confidence, meet people and make a difference.
How to attend
This event is free to attend. Simply turn up on the day — no booking is required.
Event Details
- Where: The School Bank West Lothian
- When: 12pm to 2pm
What to expect
The School Bank West Lothian will be opening their doors during Challenge Poverty Week 2026, giving you the chance to see behind the scenes of the support they provide to families across West Lothian.
Pop in to meet the team, ask questions and find out what goes into providing each school uniform pack.
How to attend
Reserve your free spot at the School Bank Open Day (opens new window)
