Financial Support
We know that money worries can be very stressful and sometimes difficult to talk about. It is important to know you are not alone and speaking out is the first step towards getting the help and support you need.
Taking the time to manage your money better can really pay off. It can help you stay on top of your bills and save you money. The extra savings can be used to pay off any debts you might have, used towards your savings or spent on your next car or holiday.
The Money Helper have a budget planner to help you work out your finances and money managing tips so you can take control of your finances.
We are aware that the cost of living rises are hitting people hard. The Government has announced several grants to try to help make your money go further. Some of the support available for workers, benefit claimants, people with disabilities and pensioners can be found below.
Funded financial support
Warm Home Discount
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a one-off £150 discount off your electricity bill. If you are eligible, your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill. The money is not paid to you. If you are eligible, you may be able to get the discount on your gas bill instead, if your supplier provides you with both gas and electricity. To find out more, contact your supplier.
The discount will not affect your Cold Weather Payment or Winter Fuel Payment.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before 27 June 1960 you could get between £100 and £300 from the Winter Fuel Payment Scheme to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2026 to 2027. Most people get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they’re eligible. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive a letter in October or November saying how much you’ll get.
If your total income is over £35,000, HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back. Your partner’s income does not count towards your total.
Most eligible people will be paid in November or December 2026.
Local support
National Energy Action
We work closely with National Energy Action (NEA) who are a national charity working to end fuel poverty. They define fuel poverty as a household needing to use 10% of their income on keeping their home warm.
You can visit their website on the 'Get Help' section for details on energy advice and support.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice can help support you with debts and money advice, including help with the cost of living, dealing with debts, budgeting, banking, pensions and general financial advice.
Find out more on their website or contact the Preston branch for more information
The Priority Services Register (PSR)
The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK wide service which provides extra advice and support, including when there’s an interruption to your electricity, gas or water supply.
Find out more about eligibility and the support available on the PSR website.
Benefit Check
Call us
0800 953 0213 (option 4)
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As prices go up so do the number of scams targeting people worried about the cost of living. To help keep your money safe:
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Do not use any details provided in an email or text message. Use details provided on an official website.
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If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a text message or email, contact the organisation directly and check.
- Similarly, you can report suspicious text messages or emails to be investigated. Send any suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and the National Cyber Security Centre will check it. Forward any suspicious text messages to 7726. This is free and will report the message to your mobile provider.
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