By Joshua Robinson –
Kirklees Council has revealed its cost of living support web pages with practical tips and advice to help support people this winter. From local food banks to fuel-saving tips, local free and low-cost events, mental and physical health support, and more.
To see what support is available, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/cost-of-living/index.aspx
Financial Support
The continued rising cost of living remains a burden on many households’ finances. Taking action, such as making sure people are getting everything they’re entitled to, budgeting, and cutting back on non-essential items can help to manage when prices jump.
There are quick and easy tools to check income online, or from reputable organisations that can help to do this free of charge.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/council-tax/financial-support-and-debt-advice.aspx
Keeping Warm and Reducing Energy Bills
A massive rise in the cost of gas and electric that suppliers pay has sent household energy prices soaring. The market is unpredictable, which means advice can change rapidly.
Usually when energy bills go up, the best advice is to shop around for a cheaper deal, but there are very few out there. However, help is available to manage bills.
Firstly, don’t be afraid to inform suppliers straight away if you are finding it hard to pay. Suppliers will provide specialist advice and support to find a solution before things get worse.
Grants are available to clear domestic gas and electricity debts. But before applying for these grants, get free advice from a reputable agency to make sure they are the right option.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/your-property-bins-recycling/house-warm.aspx
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Cost of Food
Food shopping can be one of the biggest bills and it’s becoming harder to afford the essentials as prices increase.
Regular meals are important to keep people and their families healthy so it’s important to ensure everyone is fed.
People should check they’re claiming all they are entitled, this could help to maximise income and ease the burden. Financial support and debt advice includes free online tools that can be used to check income.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/cost-of-living/food-support.aspx
Warm Spaces
Warm spaces are friendly and comfortable places where people can keep warm and be with others.
In Kirklees there are 24 libraries that are warm spaces and everyone is welcome. All libraries are heated, are comfortable to stay in for long periods of time. Every building has a range of both seating, and more functional furniture for study or computer use. They are a place to keep warm, meet friends, sit and read and take part in activities.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/cost-of-living/warm-spaces.aspx
Free Support from Libraries
Libraries in Kirklees are free to use. There is no cost to join the library, and there is no expectation that people need to spend anything to be there. They are non-judgemental places of safety.
Libraries have knowledgeable staff who will help people find information from reliable and accurate online sources and vast book collections. They can also guide people to relevant services to support their needs.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/cost-of-living/cost-of-living-libraries.aspx
Mental Health Support
Having good mental health is vital to living a balanced and happy life, and can contribute to better physical health. Good mental health support is crucial for everyone no matter what stage. Whether stressed from school runs, having a bad day, feeling anxious or depressed or are nervous since being in lockdown, support can be found to help people.
If people are experiencing mental health problems or need urgent help, there are many resources available and there is plenty of support within reach.
To find out more information, please visit: https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/mental-health/index.aspx