Whether you need help with food, bills, debt or benefits – support is available
Although no longer dominating the headlines, the rising cost of living continues to affect residents across Hull. Many may feel stretched by the rising costs of food, energy, rent and everyday essentials.
For some it’s a matter of juggling budgets, for others, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to meet everyday needs. Hull City Council and its various services are working with partners and the Voluntary and Community Sector to offer support to residents that are finding things extra difficult.
Cllr Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “We know many residents are under pressure right now and it’s not always clear where to turn. Our message is simple, you don’t have to face money worries alone, there is support available.”
There are a wide range of services available to help people manage their finances, access benefits, food and energy support and understand their entitlements through both Hull City Council and local partners. Whether you’re in work, caring for someone, on a low income or dealing with debt, help is out there.
Residents can access help with:
- Energy and water bills
- Council tax reduction, discounts or exemptions
- Housing and rent support
- Debt advice and budgeting tools
- Carer support and disability funding
- Emergency food and household essentials
This month also marks Talk Money Week, which runs from 3-7 November. This is a national campaign encouraging people to speak more openly about their finances and ‘start the conversation’ around any money worries or issues they may be having.
Throughout the week, Hull City Council is working with local partners to highlight free, trusted support to help you take control of your money. There will be resources shared online to signpost help and support available.
The week will culminate with ‘Talk Money Week – Ask The Experts’, an event open to the public, taking place at Princes Quay on 8 November from 11am – 3pm on the third floor.
Cllr Ross added: “Our city centre event is a chance for residents to speak directly to local experts in a friendly, informal setting. Whether it’s just a quick question or you need help finding the right support, this is a valuable opportunity to get free, honest advice from people who are here to help.
“It’s an event for anyone who would like advice about money, whether that’s general budgeting help, or advice on specific issues like problems with gambling, dealing with loan sharks and how to protect yourself from scams. It’s a great starting point for taking the first step to tackling a problem, or to just understanding and managing money better.”
At the event expect to see experts from Citizens Advice, Money Helper, Warm Homes and many more to give you help and guidance on issues. If you can’t make the event, Hull City Council’s cost of living resource page brings many of these services together in one place, making it easy to navigate and see what you may be entitled to. Visit: www.hull.gov.uk/costofliving , Call: 01482 300 303 or E-mail: costofliving@hullcc.gov.uk for more information and help.