The rising cost of living is here to stay and many people are struggling or worried about how they are going to manage.
The most important thing is that people do not worry on their own. They should try to speak to the company who has sent them a bill or ask for help. Citizens Advice can advise what and may be able to support people.
However, these increased costs are here to stay so it is important that people look at longer term solutions. It is important that people check they are getting all the income they are entitled to – https://www.entitledto.co.uk/ can help people calculate their entitlement.
A lot of people don’t realise they may be entitled to Council Tax Reduction and pensioners might miss out on claiming pension credit – even if a tiny amount of pension credit may be worth claiming as can enable people to claim other benefits such as help with council tax or free dental care.
It can be helpful for people to look at their income and expenditure with someone who has experience with budgeting – they can help identify changes that might help. People facing financial hardship might find that companies like Anglia Water, Essex and Suffolk Water or TV Licensing can offer extra support. There are also deals available for mobile and broadband services, including a social tariff (you can check these on the Ofcom website).
If you would like to talk to someone at your local Citizens Advice, please ring 01728832193 between 10 and 2 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday.
