We understand that most people experience some money difficulties at some point in life. This could be due to a change in personal circumstances, losing a job or ill health, or even having trouble understanding changes to the welfare system, such as Universal Credit or the Benefit Cap.
Our Financial Inclusion team is here to help and can:
- help with applications for all of the benefits you are entitled to
- support you in challenging decisions to stop or change your benefits
- assist you with benefits appeals through to a tribunal hearing
- explain any changes to the benefits system and how they are likely to affect you
- apply for discretionary payments and grants to help with rent arrears
- help with water charges
- offer budgeting advice
- refer you for additional support you may need, such as with digital skills or ongoing tenancy support
You can contact the Financial Inclusion team by completing the form below and one of our advisors will contact you.
There's also lots of help and information available online. You can find out more by clicking on the links below.
Claiming benefits
Benefits calculator
Do you know which benefits you're entitled to? Use our free, confidential benefits calculator to help you learn more about how much you can claim.
If you need extra support with working out your entitlements you can request a free consultation with one of our advisors.
The benefit cap
If you're concerned about the impact of the benefit cap you can find out more on the government's website.
Money Helper also provides lots of information on what the benefit cap is, who's affected, who's exempt and more.
Getting out of debt
Free debt support
If you've got bills or borrowing that you can't afford, you can get free, independent debt advice from a regulated service.
A debt advisor can help you get some breathing space to manage your situation better and work out the best way forward.
These organisations offer free debt support:
Loan shark helpline
Loan sharks take advantage of people who are struggling and feel they have nowhere else to turn. If you're offered money with high charges and not much paperwork you should be cautious about accepting their offer.
Stop Loan Sharks has a free helpline you can contact if you need advice about taking a loan, or want to report suspicious behaviour: 0300 555 2222.
Money Advice Service
The government's own finance advice website covers things like pensions, benefits advice and debt and borrowing.