Cost of Living (Financial Inclusion)
Overall, nearly two-thirds (63%) of UK adults have been concerned about a friend, family member or colleague’s mental wellbeing, linked to money worries.
Of those who have been worried, the most common signs include changes in mood and temperament, trouble sleeping, and being anxious, stressed or lacking in confidence to contact the bank.
You can use the MECC approach to look out for these signs and enable people to access help, guidance and advice on mental health, debt and money management. There is a wide range of guidance available from the Money Helper website which has been incorporated below.
This section also provides local support and contact details for organisations that can help with the cost of living.
Very Brief Intervention
Ask
Always try to empathise, acknowledging that it is normal to worry about money issues but also reassure that there is lots of free help available. See ACT section for details of organisations that provide free debt advice.
Do you have any worries relating to money, budgeting, borrowing or debt?
For Budgeting
How confident are you about budget setting, sticking to it and how to save?
Did you know that Money Helper provides a range of management tips, including how to set up a budget, sticking to it and how to save? Would you like some further information on this?
For Debt
Did you know that Money Helper offers a range of free advice on anything that you might be struggling to pay for? Would you like some information on this?
Did you know that there are lots of free debt advice services available across the UK? Would you like further information on these?
For Borrowing
Before borrowing money have you considered whether
- you need to spend the money
- you have other ways of financing the purchase, and
- you can afford to pay back the money you’re planning to borrow
If you need to borrow money, have you considered the cost of borrowing and where you would source this from?
The Money Helper service has advice on different sources of borrowing as well as advice on good debt and bad debt. Would you like some further information on this?
For Rising Cost of Energy
Would you like some further information on what support is available to you?
Did you know that the energy price cap only applies to the units you use, it doesn't mean that energy bills are capped at 2.5k?
- To avoid any confusion confirm that the price cap only applies to the unit cost of energy, Not your total bill. The 2.5K is what an average household will pay, so if you use more than this, your will pay more than this.
Assist
For Budgeting
Taking the time to manage your money better can really pay off. It can help you stay on top of your bills and save £1,000s each year.
Would you like some helpful information on managing your money?
Beginner's guide to managing your money | MoneyHelper
For Debt and Borrowing
Would you like some information on that could assist you with paying for household bills?
Money Helper - Help if you’re struggling with debt
Would you like some further information on the many different free and recommended debt advice service that are available either nationally or locally?
- Re-assure them that the debt adviser will never judge them or make them feel bad about their situation and that they will work with the person to find way find ways to manage their debts even if they think they have no spare money.
- Re-assure them that most people who get debt advice feel less stressed or anxious and more in control of their life again.
Act
National Support Services
The Money Helper Service was set up by the Government and offers free impartial advice including
- Advice and guides to help improve your finances
- Tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead
- Support over the phone and online
https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
0800 1387777 (free phone)
Got a question? You can start a Webchat online.
Webchat opening hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Saturday, 8am to 3pm
- Sunday and Bank Holidays, closed.
WhatsApp: Need help sorting out your debts, have credit questions or want pensions guidance? You can talk to the team live on WhatsApp.
- Add +44 77 0134 2744 to your WhatsApp and send a message.
Citizens Advice Service
The Citizens Advice Service can help you to make the right choices, including help to deal with your debt problems, how to avoid losing your home and how to get your finances back into shape. Citizens Advice also offer advice on Benefits and Tax credits as it's important to make sure that you get all the help that you're entitled to.
03444 111 444
National Debtline
National Debtline has helped millions of people with their debts. They'll talk you through options and give clear advice on how to take back control.
The Debt Advice Foundation is a national debt advice and education charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt.
0800 622 61 51
Credit Unions
Credit unions can help those who can't get access to ordinary bank products.
Rising cost of Energy
If you are struggling to pay for energy or think you may get into difficulty, contact your supplier.
The energy regulator rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans you can afford and you can ask for ‘emergency credit’ if you use a prepay meter and can’t top up.
Save money off your Gas Bill
Turning down a single setting will make your boiler work more efficiently, saving around £129 a year for the average household. It only takes a few minutes to lower your flow temperature, and it can be changed back instantly. There’s nothing to lose by trying it. Advice from Nesta, the UK's innovation agency for social good.
Local Support and Contact Details
https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/cost-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living support
Cost of living support: https://www.barnet.gov.uk/benefits-grants-and-financial-advice/cost-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Everyone is being affected by the rising cost of living. There are a number of local organisations in Bexley that can offer financial help and advice https://www.bexley.gov.uk/services/cost-living/help-cost-living
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
For information on support services across Bexley, please also search our community directory- https://connectedbexley.co.uk/
A wide range of Cost of Living support is available for Brent residents via...
https://www.brent.gov.uk/cost-of-living-help-and-advice
To explore accessibility options on the Brent council website
Contact the council | Brent Council
For support regarding Money and Debt
Find out if you're eligible for financial assistance and benefits. including Council Tax Support, The Resident Support Fund, Housing Benefit, Discretionary Housing Payment, etc.
Benefits and money advice | Brent Council
For support if you're facing homelessness
Housing assistance | Brent Council
If you are homeless today Call our homeless team on: 020 8937 2000 (option 3) Normal working hours are Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. Outside of these hours, call: 020 8937 1234. When you call, tell them what your situation is and why it’s urgent.
For support regarding your Energy and Water Bills
Find out what support is available to help you pay for or reduce your electricity, gas and water bills
Electricity, gas and water bills | Brent Council
For support with Food and Household Essentials
Ideas on how to save money on your broadband, make meals go further and information on local Food Banks in Brent
Help with food and household essentials | Brent Council
For support with Childcare and School Costs
If you are part of a family or look after children, then find out about what support you can claim for childcare and options to help with school costs, including uniforms, meals and transport.
Help with childcare and school costs | Brent Council
For support with Jobs and Training
Using our learning and employment services to find local job and training opportunities
Jobs, training and skills |Brent Council
Face to Face support is also available via the BRENT HUBS
Brent Civic Centre
Engineers Way
Wembley
HA9 0FJ
Opening hours:
Monday 9am - 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Tuesday - Friday 9am to 1pm
Brent Hubs Wembley
Ealing Road Library
Coronet Parade
Ealing Rd
Wembley, HA0 4BA
Opening hours:
Monday 10:30am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
The living room
Next 65 - 80 Besant Way
London
NW10 0TY
Opening hours:
Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Brent Hubs Willesden
Willesden Green Library
95 High Rd
Willesden
NW10 2SF
Opening hours:
Monday and Tuesday 10:30am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Brent Hubs Kilburn
Hornbill House
2 Rudolph Road
London
NW6 5GG
Opening hours:
Wednesday and Thursday 10.30am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Brent Hubs Harlesden
Harlesden Library
49A Craven Park Rd,
Harlesden,
NW10 8SE
Opening hours:
Monday and Wednesday 10:30am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Brent Hubs Kingsbury
Kingsbury Library
Kingsbury Road
Kingsbury
NW9 9HE
Opening hours:
Thursday 10.30am to 5pm
(Lunch Break 1pm-2pm)
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
The above information was reviewed and updated on 4th March 2024
https://www.bromley.gov.uk/supportingresidents
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Bromley Well - Cost of Living Support
If you or someone you know is finding it hard to cover living costs, there is support available
If you are a Bromley borough resident, Bromley Well provides free support. Call freephone 0808 278 7898, or complete the online form or email spa@bromleywell.org.uk
Visit their website for further information: Cost of living - Bromley Well
https://www.camden.gov.uk/find-support-in-camden
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/getting-help-with-the-cost-of-living
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Find Support Services
Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS.
Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!
https://www.croydon.gov.uk/get-help-rising-cost-living/help-households
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.ealing.gov.uk/info/201320/cost_of_living_support_and_advice
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/your-council/cost-of-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://hackney.gov.uk/hackney-money-help
Please also refer to this support guide for help during the cost of living crisis.
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Find Support Services
Find support services is here to help residents (or those acting on their behalf) find support, advice, classes and activities run by the local community and voluntary sector in Hackney and the City. It is a system-wide initiative between Hackney Council, City of London and the NHS.
Help comes in many forms. Some people may feel isolated and want a chat; others might be determined to join an exercise class; or decide that this is the time to pick up a new skill or lose an old habit. Some may require specialist advice around finances or employment, or may be concerned about domestic abuse or addiction. Click here to use Find Support Services to find local organisations that can help nearest you!
Cost of living support | London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham (lbhf.gov.uk)
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.haringey.gov.uk/news/cost-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.harrow.gov.uk/benefits/cost-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.havering.gov.uk/costofliving
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Support while the cost of living rises | London Borough of Hounslow
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.islington.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/cost-of-living-support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/cost-living-support-hub
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://www.kingston.gov.uk/benefits-5/support-rising-living-costs
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living, money and debt | Lambeth Council
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
https://lewisham.gov.uk/support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost-of-living support | Merton Council
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Well Newham Website
Please visit the Well Newham Website here for information about all the Cost of Living support available in Newham.
https://costofliving.redbridge.gov.uk/
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Richmond Cost of Living Hub - London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Southwark Council Cost of Living Support
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living support - Sutton Council
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living (towerhamlets.gov.uk)
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living support: your crisis, our action | London Borough of Waltham Forest
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Wandsworth Cost of Living Hub - Wandsworth Borough Council
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Cost of living support hub and strategy | Westminster City Council
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.