Claxton Village, Norfolk

With the cost of living rising, many people across the county face a difficult winter.

Norfolk ALC recently sent out information that pointed councils and their residents to sources of support that can offer assistance through difficult times.  This information can also be accessed via our website; just go to Help in a Crisis.   The page offers links to find help with:

• Financial support
• Food costs
• Energy costs
• Sanitary products and toiletries
• Help from district councils.

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NCC’s latest Training newsletter can be read by clicking here.

Please also take some time to look at their website, which will give you all the information you need about the project and the opportunity to get to know their staff.  Follow the link here: Health and social care training – Norfolk County Council.

With the cost of living rising, many people across the UK face a difficult winter. Healthwatch Norfolk has always been dedicated to highlighting available local support and appropriate services to protect the wellbeing and health of Norfolk residents. Healthwatch Norfolk has launched a cost of living support directory to help those affected by the cost of living crisis access help and support.The webpage contains a list of local services offering advice and support for those facing financial stress. The directory includes links to:

• Financial support
• Food banks
• Charities/schemes
• Health advice
• Mental health support

Many of us, especially those most vulnerable, will feel the strain this winter. If you feel that your physical or mental health is being affected by financial stresses you should speak with your GP.  A YouGov poll commissioned by the Royal College of Physicians suggested that:
Over half of the people in Britain thought their health had worsened due to the cost of living increases. Many indicated that it was down to increased heating costs, the rising cost of food and transport costs rising.  16% of those surveyed who said they were impacted by the rising cost of living had been told by a doctor or health professional in the last year that stress caused by rising living costs had worsened their health.

To access the Directory just click here.

The original Energy Rebate Scheme was limited to those who lives in houses in Council Tax Bands A-D.  The Discretionary Fund  open to anyone in Broadland or South Norfolk who is having difficulty paying their energy bills. 

You do not have to be in receipt of benefits to apply, you just need to be able to show us that you are struggling to pay.

If you do not have sufficient evidence for this, however, please still complete the application form and a member of staff will contact you to see how we can help.

Households are able to apply even if they have already received an Energy Rebate payment. (more…)

If you are struggling to pay for energy or think you may get into difficulty, contact your supplier.  View information on how to find your supplier.

We know the Energy Price Cap rise caused by global energy factors will be extremely worrying for many people.  We are working round the clock to make sure consumers pay no more than is necessary and are supported by suppliers in any way possible.

Our rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans you can afford and you can ask for ‘emergency credit’ if you use a prepay meter and can’t top up.

The Government has also announced an Energy Bills Support Scheme to help people deal with rising bills.

Turn2us has a grants and benefits eligibility checker and can support you through application processes.

Norfolk Association of Local Councils have produced a useful guide for those of us who are feeling the pinch at this economically uncertain time.  You can read it by clicking here.