Help is available through the council and its partners if you’re struggling with the cost of living.
More people are reaching out than ever before, many who have never had to ask for help.
Rising energy prices and inflation are impacting more and more families locally. Here’s some of the help you can get:
- If your child gets means-tested free school meals apply for the Household Support Fund through First Days Children’s Charity (note you can apply for one type of Household Support Fund support)
- If you’re struggling with bills or buying food apply for the Household Support Fund through Age UK Berkshire or Citizens Advice (note you can apply for one type of Household Support Fund support)
- Go to the cost of living help hub for tips and advice
- Go to the help for families with cost of living advice pages
- See how you can get help with household bills
- Register for priority services if you have children aged five or under, you are pregnant or if you or a family member is disabled or has a long term health condition
- See services you can contact directly for help with essentials like food or warm clothes
If you’d prefer to talk to someone contact One Front Door. This is a service led by Citizens Advice which helps residents find the most appropriate support. Use the online referral form or call 0808 278 7958, Monday to Friday.
And if you’re not struggling but have time and want to help others, see if you could volunteer locally to support organisations helping people struggling with the cost of living.
Please also see the ‘Get help if you’re struggling’ poster for more information.