Cost of living support

This month has been labelled 'awful April' in the media as many household bills, including energy, water and council tax, have all gone up at the same time.

These extra outgoings not only put pressure on your purse but can put pressure on you mentally too. As we're supporting the first ever financial wellbeing month, we'd like to share some of the latest support available to help with bills and the general cost of living.

Lower water bills

All water companies have cheaper tariffs available for people on a low income. The tariffs are different at each water company as they set who's eligible and the reduction available.

For example, in the main areas where our homes are Anglian Water's Lite tariff can give up to a 50% annual bill reduction and Severn Trent Water's Big Difference scheme can be up to a 70% annual reduction. Apply on their website or contact your water company to ask how.

If you don't qualify for any of these tariffs, the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) has lots of help listed on its website.

Click here to visit the CCW's advice hub

Household Support Fund

You may be able to get get help with essential items, such as energy bills and food, from your local council - plus, you don't have to be on benefits to apply for this.

It's down to each council how they run the scheme and decide who's eligible. Some might provide you with vouchers or make you a one-off payment, while others may use the fund through local charities and community groups.

Just search the name of your council online followed by 'Household Support Fund' to find out more.

Click here to find your local council if you don't know this

Cheaper broadband

There are cheaper social tariffs available for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and other benefits, with some providers offering broadband deals from as low as £10 a month.

The tariffs usually range from £10 to £20 a month, and it may even be that the provider you're already with has a social tariff you can simply switch on to.

There should be no set-up fee, or if there is then this should be small and you'll be made aware before you sign up. There's also no charge to leave a social tariff before the end of your contract.

Click here to visit Ofcom and see if you can find a cheaper deal

Photo of some exercise weights and a water bottle lying on a blue exercise mat against a blue background

Tenancy Support from Futures

We're here to help too! Our Tenancy Support team can make referrals to food banks, give budgeting and debt advice, or they can even be that extra helping hand and help you to build confidence and get into routines that can help with your home life.

Click here for more information

Bills Calculator With Checks Goods Services

Discretionary Housing Payment

While we'd always recommend speaking to Futures first if you're struggling to pay your rent, you may be able to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment through your local council. For example, if your housing benefit doesn't cover all of your rent or if you can't afford a rent in advance payment.

Click here to find out more

Close Up Coins Saved Energy Crisis Expenses

Benefits checker

Are you unsure if you're getting everything you're entitled to? Find out what benefits and financial support you're eligible for on the government's website.

Click here to find out more

Kids eat for free

It's not just during the school holidays that many supermarkets offer deals for kids to eat free. We've done a supermarket sweep to see what's currently available.

Click here for the offers