Money Help in Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

 

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If you are worried about money here are some links to helpful websites.

Check your entitlements

COMPLETE A BENEFITS CHECK 

A benefits check will tell you if there is more money help with your everyday living and housing costs. This could include:

  • Universal Credit
  • Disability and Carers benefits
  • Pension credit
  • Help with childcare costs
  • Attendance Allowance – pension age with health condition impacting on daily function

Always seek help from a specialist adviser if you are applying for a carer or disability / health related benefit.

 

Other help you can quickly apply for

 

Help in an emergency

 

Make a budget

Using a budget planner, go through everything you spend – not just regular bills but all expenses, e.g. haircut, pet food, clothes. Keeping a daily record of spending is very helpful.

 

Save money on everyday costs

Energy (Gas and Electric)

  • Check with your supplier if you’re getting the best deal – at the moment with high energy prices a fixed deal may not suit you but ask your energy supplier for advice
  • Take meter readings regularly to see how much you are using and consider a smart meter
  • If you are on prepayment meter try and top up regularly all year
  • If you are older, have young children and /or a health condition or disability ask to go onto the priority services register with your supplier
  • Energy saving tips
  • Energy – Making Money Count
  • PECT

Water

Phone / Internet / TV packages

  • BT, Talk Talk, Hyperoptic, VirginMedia and KCOM offer discounted rates for households on relevant benefits. More information here Cheaper broadband and phone packages - Ofcom
  • Use a comparison site to check that you are on the best deal available. Review your subscriptions and ensure that you are only paying for what you need
  • TV Licence: If you watch or record live TV or use BBC iPlayer without a licence, you may be prosecuted and fined up to £1000.

 

Take action on debt

  • Contact a debt advice agency if you have bills or borrowing that you cannot afford, 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.
  • Avoid loan sharks - Loan sharks take advantage of people struggling who feel they have nowhere else to turn. If you are offered money with little paperwork but high charges avoid and contact the free helpline on 0300 555 2222.
  • HAMA Debt advice drop in at Ramsey library 3rd Wed month 10-12
  • Community Bus Sutton – money/benefits advice and support 10-12 Royal British Legion car park CB6 2QQ can call team 01353 665555
  • Sutton only – Sutton Poor Lands Charity grant – email suttonpoorsland@gmail.com

 

Useful websites

Published: Sep 20, 2022