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Coping with the rising cost of living

Important costs like energy, food and rent are rising steeply. If you’re worried about being able to afford these increases, you are not alone.

How can I reduce the impact of this crisis on my finances?

• Understand your financial situation with the budget planner
• Find out if you can boost your income with the benefits calculator
• See what cost of living support you could be eligible for with the “Help for Households”
• Take control of your debt with our seven step guide
• Build an emergency fund with the right advice

GroceryAid Financial Grants

If you are struggling to manage your finances due to cost of living increases, GroceryAid will consider a one-off grant. You may apply if you are a current grocery employee in receipt of income related benefits such as Universal Credit or Tax Credits. Please complete the Financial Grant application form here and select Cost of Living as your reason for application.

Other organisations who may be able to help you

Local council
Click here and enter your postcode to find your local council’s website. From here you can find a variety of services that your council may be able to support you with including what to do if you don’t have food, money or housing.

Foodbanks

You will need a food voucher from your GP, social worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice. Hand the voucher in to your nearest Trussell Trust foodbank in exchange for a minimum of three days’ emergency food. When searching for your nearest foodbank remember to check the opening hours.

There may be other types of foodbanks locally which don’t require vouchers, for example churches or community organisations

Energy Bills

If you are struggling to manage debt with your energy costs, please first speak to your supplier and ask them to negotiate an affordable repayment plan before you do anything else, they will check if you are eligible for any discounts or grants. Ofgem regulations require them to work with you to come to a solution. If you need help to do this, then please contact StepChange here who can advise you on managing debt.  There is information from MoneyHelper here on how to ask for breathing space if you are struggling to pay your debts.

Housing advice

Shelter offers advice to people about homelessness, rights, and other housing issues

• England– Phone: 0808 800 4444(Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and 9am to 5pm weekends and bank holidays)
• Scotland– Phone: 0808 800 4444(Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, closed bank holidays)
• Wales– Phone: 08000 495 495 (Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4pm)

Housing advice NI

• Phone: 028 9024 5640 (Open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4:30pm, closed on public holidays)
• Textphone: 028 9026 9927
• Housing Advice NI is the home of independent housing advice in Northern Ireland.

Domestic violence or abuse

Domestic violence or abuse can happen to anyone. Find out how to recognise the signs and where to get help.
Please click here to find help relevant to your situation.