Support for people struggling with the cost of living

We know that many people are worried about the rising cost of essential items like food, energy, and rent. Below is a summary of some of the key support which is available nationally and locally.

Information and support from national government

The gov.uk website has information about government support for the cost of living. This includes income and disability benefits, bills and allowances, childcare, housing and travel.

Help for Households

The government is offering help for households. See what cost of living support you could be eligible for.

Information and support from local government

Find a summary of the support available from your local council which may be able to help during this difficult time.

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice is a national charity and network of local charities that offer confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free. They help to connect people with the knowledge and confidence to deal with problems they might be facing.

Their cost-of-living advice page has information about support which may be available to afford essentials like bills and food.

Visit the Citizens Advice cost of living advice page

Additional Citizens Advice pages which may be useful:

• Help with debts
• Reducing regular living costs
• Using a foodbank
• Mortgage problems
• Rent arrears

Your local Citizens Advice

Your local Citizens Advice can provide information about support which is available in your area.

Warm Homes Essex

Warm Homes Essex is a partnership between Essex County Council and Citizens Advice Essex. They help people struggling to afford heating to keep their homes warm. They can also help residents reduce their energy costs and impact on the environment.

The Trussell Trust

Food banks provide a minimum of three days’ emergency food to people in crisis, alongside additional support. To get help from a food bank, people need to be referred with a voucher, which can be issued by a number of local community organisations, such as schools, GPs and advice agencies.

You can also call the Help through Hardship helpline for free to talk confidentially to a trained Citizens Advice adviser on 0808 208 2138 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)