Council bosses in West Dunbartonshire have been urged to urgently implement a no evictions policy and a council tax holiday during the coronavirus crisis.

The call, by the Scottish Greens, is aimed at providing practical help to people worried about how they will cope during the pandemic.

Ross Greer MSP said: “Individuals cannot mitigate every impact of this unfortunate situation, and while I welcome the Scottish Government announcement that support will be made available to small businesses, Scottish Ministers and West Dunbartonshire Council must also ensure that they are providing practical help to people.

"It’s time to institute a holiday on council tax payments and commit to no evictions during this ongoing crisis."

Mr Greer welcomed signs that people are coming together to offer help where needed.

He said: “It has been heartening to see so many members of the community rallying round to support those who cannot get out because they are vulnerable or are following guidance to self-isolate.

"A crisis often brings out the best in people and thankfully that seems to have been the case in West Dunbartonshire as this crisis has unfolded."

A spokesperson for West Dunbartonshire Council said: "If anyone is struggling with their council tax payments, we would encourage them to contact our council tax section on 01389 737444 who will be able to assist.

"We continue to work with all residents facing financial difficulty, and offer support to help alleviate any hardship through our Working4U service, including income maximisation, debt management and access to employment.

"In light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and to avoid any tenant being evicted during this time, West Dunbartonshire Council has temporarily suspended all current court action to recover property."

Meanwhile, residents experiencing a change in income may be eligible for a council tax reduction or housing benefit.

More information can be found at west-dunbarton.gov.uk/benefits-and-grants/

Help with rent charges are mainly administered by the Department for Work and Pensions through Universal Credit.

Further information is available at gov.uk/universal-credit.

Mr Greer said his staff are working remotely.

Constituents can continue to be in touch via ross.greer.msp@parliament.scot or leave a message via voicemail on 0141 956 2778.