With the winter freeze already hitting us here, many are getting worried about energy bills, coupled with higher food prices.

Households continue to be under so much pressure, so it’s important to know where to go for help.

That’s why I was delighted recently to host another Cost-of-Living Event at Centre 81, this time in collaboration with Clydebank Housing Association.

This gave my constituents the chance to pop along for a hot drink, soup, and a chat with the organisations and charities that can offer support.

It was amazing to have just under 30 local and national organisations there on hand to help.

I was especially keen to ensure support for those impacted by the UK Government’s decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment and its consequences for the Scottish budget.

I urge pensioners impacted to check if they are eligible for pension credit which will mean they keep the winter fuel payment.

We had a great turnout, and it was so nice to see lots of local groups able to network with each other.

READ MORE: Scottish Labour hold seat in Drumchapel/Anniesland by-election

My sincere thanks to all the organisations and charities who took time out of their busy schedule to attend and offer their help to my constituents, it is so appreciated.

In Parliament recently, I was pleased to lead a World COPD Day debate, to call for early detection and highlighting occupational hazards linked to the disease.

World COPD Day, which is held on 20th November this year, takes place each year to raise awareness of COPD, the symptoms, and to highlight the importance of early detection and management.

COPD is a condition that most commonly affects people who smoke or have smoked, those who have been exposed to dust fumes or chemicals in work, and those who had chest trouble or asthma in childhood.

In Scotland, it is estimated that the condition affects over 140,000 people who have had a diagnosis, with tens of thousands living without a proper diagnosis.

It can have a huge impact on someone’s life, impacting their ability to work, exercise, and generally reduces their quality of life.

I unfortunately lost my own mother to this terrible disease in 2012. And as the MSP who covers Clydebank, an area with a tragic asbestos legacy – a substance which can increase your risk of developing COPD - I felt it was my duty to speak up on this matter.

Please look out for the symptoms - shortness of breath, a persistent chesty cough with phlegm that does not go away, frequent chest infections and persistent wheezing.

Stopping smoking and getting your flu and pneumococcal vaccines are really vital to help tackle COPD, so I would strongly urge constituents to do this.