Millions of people are facing a cost of living crisis as they’re hit by increased energy costs and rising inflation, while the £20 Universal Credit uplift has ended. Those on the lowest incomes will be hit hardest and we know our frontline advisors are already supporting people who are struggling to afford rent, food or heating.
With the energy price cap set to increase further this April, we know this will have a huge effect on those who come to us for help.
That is why we have provided the following tools to help you with maximising your income to support your household.
1. Benefits Calculator
Our benefits calculator can help you find out what benefits you can claim. The calculator is free to use, available in different languages and the details you provide are anonymous.
This easy tool takes 10 minutes to complete and will tell you what you’re entitled to. Work out your benefits entitlement here.
2. Budgeting
An important step towards getting control of your money is finding out what you have coming in and going out each month.
Working out a budget will show you what you have left each month to settle any debts, or to set aside for emergencies and highlight where you could cut costs. This will help ensure you have enough money every month.
To get you started, Citizens Advice have a free budgeting tool that will help you understand what you’re earning and spending. It will also show you where you might be able to cut costs. This budget tool takes at least 30 minutes to complete and can be found here.
3. Energy Advice
If you are on a low income, vulnerable or have a health condition, we’re offering two services which may benefit you:
1-to-1 Energy Advice Appointments
We can help you understand your bills, advise you on how you could reduce your energy costs and help available to you. You can have an appointment by phone, face-to-face, web chat and video.
Group Energy Information Sessions
These group sessions are for the public, offering energy tips on how to save money. Sessions can be carried out both virtually or in-person.
To organise either an appointment or group session, email: energyadvice@westsussexcab.org.uk or find out more information here.
You can also use the Citizens Advice price comparison tool to compare prices from different energy suppliers to make sure you’re getting the best price. You’ll need the name of your supplier and tariff – this will be on your energy bill.
If you need advice about maximising your income or help available to you, get in touch.
