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. 

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 for help accessing grants and support services
• Step Change for information about emergency help and hardship payments

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

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:

• England
• Wales
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland

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.

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. 

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

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

• Apply for the Warm Home Discount scheme, available to those receiving benefits or a low income.
• Check what support you could receive from your gas and electricity supplier by contacting them directly.

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

• Energy Savings Trusts
• Citizens Advice Bureau
• National Energy Action

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

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:

• Citizens Advice
• National Debtline – call 0808 808 4000 for free debt advice