Get help with money problems

Help for those struggling with the cost of living crisis and financial pressure.

Help with the cost of living crisis

The cost of living crisis is affecting many people in the UK. As we see increases in food and energy prices, millions of us are facing tough decisions about how we spend our money.

It can feel stressful and overwhelming, but there are things we can do.

To help manage the rising cost of living, you can find useful resources on this page, from help paying bills to benefits you may be entitled to. 

Emergency support

If you’re struggling to pay for essentials such as rent, food and utility bills there are organisations that can provide you with information and support.

Contact:

Turn2us free helpline:

0808 802 2000

(Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5.30pm)

Find your local food bank

Food banks can help when you can’t afford the food you need. They usually give you enough food for three days, and the parcel may include essentials such as soap and deodorant. The Trussell Trust is the biggest foodbank provider in the UK.

Find a food bank near you


Asda cafes offering free porridge and a hot drink

Asda is offering all its customers a free warming breakfast porridge and a hot drink. The initiative is open to all ages and will run until 20th March daily from 8am to 12pm, in the retailers 205 Asda Cafés.

 

Find cost of living support near you

Different types of support are available depending on where you live in the UK. As well as central and local government help, many local organisations such as churches, town halls, shops, pubs, and cafes are also offering warm hubs as well as food and drink.

Contact your local council, or check government advice to find out what financial and community support is available in your area.

Find your local council

Get cost-of-living support in:

You can also call our support line on 0808 196 3651  (10am to 5pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday). Our volunteers will be able to find support for you, such as food banks in your area.

Government help

The UK government is helping with the cost of living by providing extra needs-based support like the Cost of Living Payment and Winter Fuel Payment.

Find out more about the cost of living support available, if you’re eligible and how to make a claim on the UK government website.

What benefits am I entitled to?

Benefits and tax credits, like pension credit and universal credit, can be paid to certain people who are on low incomes or in difficult circumstances.

You can check what support you’re entitled to using the benefits calculator tool. Find out more about what support is available and who is eligible to receive it. 

Get help with your energy bill

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bill there are ways to access support.

Contact the following organisations for advice on how you can save energy, make your home more efficient and reduce your bills:

Reduce your broadband costs

For many of us, internet access is essential for day-to-day living. Things like applying for jobs, taking advantage of better prices and getting in touch with friends and family can be difficult without it.

It’s important to stay connected, but if you’re struggling with the rising costs of broadband you could:

Apply for a charitable grant

Charitable grants can be given as money, products or services and don't have to be paid back.

Search for charitable grants

Or contact Turn2us who can provide free financial advice and support to people in the UK in crisis.

Call the free helpline: 0808 802 2000 (Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5.30pm)

Debt help and advice

Dealing with money issues can be stressful and a problem we sometimes avoid. If you have mounting debt then it’s best to deal with it as soon as possible.

Get help with managing your debt from these organisations:

Emotional and wellbeing support

Money problems can quickly become overwhelming, affecting our mental and physical wellbeing. With the cost of living soaring, it’s important that you look after yourself and get the help you need.

Our wellbeing resources can help you manage feelings like stress, anxiety and worry.

If you need to speak to someone urgently, contact the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (Monday to Sunday at any time). For services in Welsh call 0808 164 0123 (Monday to Sunday 7:00pm to 11:00pm).