If you’re worried about money or struggling to pay your rent we can support you by offering advice and making referrals to relevant agencies to help you to overcome your financial difficulties.
Cost of living support payments
A cost of living support package has been put in place by the government that includes one-off payments to those on lower incomes with the current rise in the cost of living.
If you’re on low-income benefits, such as universal credit, child tax credit, income support, income-based jobseeker’s allowance, income-related employment and support allowance, pension credit, you may be entitled to the cost of living payments.
Find out more about: Cost of Living Payments 2023 to 2024 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Cost of living helpline
0808 175 3379 : open Monday – Friday 9am until 3pm
costofliving@empowermentcharity.org.uk / support@blackpoolvolunteers.org.uk
Discretionary housing payments
If you have been awarded housing benefits or universal credit (which includes an allowance for housing), but are still struggling to pay your rent, you can ask us to consider giving you extra financial help, known as a discretionary housing payment.
https://www.blackpool.gov.uk/Residents/Benefits/Extra-help-with-housing-and-council-tax-costs-.aspx
Universal credit and housing benefit
Universal credit is a payment to help with your living costs. It’s paid monthly and you may be able to get it if you’re on a low income, out of work or you cannot work – Universal Credit: What Universal Credit is – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you are of state pension age, live in supported accommodation or temporary council homeless accommodation, you will need to apply for housing benefit instead of Universal Credit – https://www.blackpool.gov.uk/Residents/Benefits/Benefits.aspx
If you aren’t sure what you may be entitled to, turn2us has a handy benefits calculator that can help you work out what help you may be able to access – Checking Benefit Entitlement | Turn2us
Citizens advice
Citizens Advice is a local charity that provides services to residents in Blackpool. It offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on any subject, including:
- Debt and money management
- Welfare benefits
- Housing advice
- Consumer rights and advice
- Employment advice
- Family advice
- Advice on loan sharks
The team offers practical help, including filling in forms and drafting letters. They can also speak to and negotiate with third parties, including creditors.
If you would like to speak to someone or book an appointment, visit https://www.blackpoolcab.org.uk/ or call 0808 278 7818, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
