Citizens Advice Bureau
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/get-help-with-the-cost-of-living/ or call on – 0808 223 1133 for free advice.
Energy Saving Trust
https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/ or call on – 0800 444 202
Help for households: https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/
Energy saving advice: https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/help-with-your-bills/energy-saving-advice/
Offers advice on how to save money on your energy bills and energy efficiency.
Help to manage your energy account: British Gas Energy Trust - Independent advice and support - British Gas
Support with energy arrears or debt
Find out whether your energy provider can offer you some help:
Help to Heat (Energy Grants)
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/find-energy-grants-for-you-home-help-to-heat
Benefits and Pensions Contact Numbers
Child Benefit – 0300 200 3100
Universal Credits – 0800 328 5644 - this includes hardship payments, budgeting advice, how to apply, disability and carers advice, council tax reduction etc.
State Pension Claims – 0800 731 7898
https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit
This includes advice, forecasts, changes to any personal information, notify them of a death etc.
Energy Company Obligation
https://www.gov.uk/energy-company-obligation
Self Employed Income Support Scheme – 0800 024 1222
Apply for Job Seekers Allowance – 0800 055 6688
Let’s all look after our community in the coming months. Check in on the elderly and the vulnerable.
Anyone needing advice or help please contact the Parish council office on – 01622 871602 Monday – Friday 9am – 2.30pm and we will do all we can to support you.
Other Useful Contact Numbers
AGE UK – 0800 678 1602
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitlements/cold-weather-payment/
This service offers advice for:
- Cold Weather payments and if you are eligible
- Personal Independence Payments
- Income support advice
- Blue Badge
- Carers allowance
- Free bus pass/prescriptions
Age UK also offers advice if you are worried about a relative, friend or neighbour who is vulnerable, alone and in need or you need help yourself.
KCC: Home essentials in a crisis - Kent County Council
The Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS) service can provide protection to those suffering a mental health crisis who are struggling with debt.
Turn 2 Us - 0800 678 1603
https://www.turn2us.org.uk/ Broadband social tariffs and advice for free internet access at libraries.
https://www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries/free-computers-and-wifi
Money Saving Expert
Advice and information from Martin Lewis
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/compare-broadband-deals/broadband-social-tariffs/
Kent Housing Group
https://www.kenthousinggroup.org.uk/assets/uploads/2018/07/Kent-Support-and-Assistance-Service-Guide-V4.pdf
This is a welfare service provided by KCC. They may help you with food, clothing, furniture.
Kent Food Bank Helpline – 03000 419292
https://www.familyfoodbank.org/how-we-can-help.html