RESIDENTS struggling with the rising cost of living can access support locally on the Warwickshire County Council (WCC) website.
The steep rises in costs this year from fuel and energy to food and heating have already impacted household budgets across the UK, leaving people worried about the additional costs that winter will bring.
And in response, WCC has set up a dedicated webpage with links to all the resources and support available across the county at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/costofliving
This includes the Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme which provides financial support and guidance to people who need help meeting their household costs. The scheme also signposts to the support available from other public, community and voluntary services around the county. This includes debt and money management advice, family information and support, help to access food and household essentials and putting people in touch with local mental health and wellbeing services.
The Household Support Fund is still available until September 30, which is designed to provide short-term financial support for people to meet immediate needs and help those who are struggling to afford to pay for energy. To enquire or to apply for support, call the Local Welfare Scheme on 0800 4081448 or 01926 359182.
Residents struggling to pay bills or manage energy debt can phone Act On Energy, who provide free and impartial advice to householders on 0800 988 2881, or alternatively they can visit the Act on Energy website for energy advice. Help and support is also available on the WCC website for other housing problems, including paying council tax or homelessness.
Multiple foodbanks are available across Warwickshire, and typically use a voucher referral system. Food supply help and advice is available for low-income families whose children are eligible for free school meals, people who are homeless, and those who are isolating.
While Warwickshire Library and Information Service can also help people to access the support they need by providing free internet access, library membership, and signposting to community services.
WCC Leader Coun Izzi Seccombe said: “The increases in cost of living will be impacting household budgets across the county and leaving many people feeling concerned as we approach the colder autumn and winter months.
“I would like to reassure residents that Warwickshire County Council has a range of support available to help those in need of financial support and advice, whether that be for food, energy, heating, or other bills. We also have services in place to support people’s mental health and wellbeing during what is a very challenging time in the current economic climate.
“We know that many people have been affected by the rising cost of living and we are very aware of the financial and mental pressures being placed on families and individuals. I strongly encourage people to find the support they need through our website, our local services, and the services of our partners that work in the public, community, and voluntary sectors. We are here to help and will do our best to support people with getting the help they need.”
