What help can I get with the cost of living?

We know that many people are struggling to manage with the rising cost of living.

On this page, you’ll find up-to-date information on the government and local council support you could be eligible for, and information on other ways you may be able to save money and maximise your income.

We’ll update this page regularly, but you can also follow us on social media for up-to-date information and advice.

If you need more support, please contact our team through the GET HELP section of our website.

Our help is always free, confidential and impartial.

Visit this webpage for up to date information on support you may be able to access, including:

• Government support 

• Support from your local council

• Help with essential costs like food, bills, travel and school

• Benefits you may be eligible for  

• Charitable grants you may be able to access (non-repayable)

• Accessing money from pension savings if you’re over 55

• Mental health support

Organisations across Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Trafford have opened free, warm, welcoming spaces for the public over this winter. Find your nearest one using this map.

You may be able to save money and maximise your income in other ways too. Here are some money saving and money maximising tips that can help…

Save money on your energy bills

Find out how you can save money on your energy bills by using our Top Ten Energy Saving Tips.

Check if you can save money on your water bills

If you have a water meter you’ll only pay for the water you use. Use the Consumer Council for Water calculator to check if having a water meter installed could save you money. If you’re on a low income you might be able to get a cheaper rate from your water company. This is called a social tariff.

Find out more about social tariffs on the Consumer Council for Water website.

Saving money on your gas and electricity

At the moment you probably won’t be able to save money by switching. Use an authorised price comparison website to see if there’s a better tariff available for you.

If there isn’t, it’s better to wait until deals are available again.

Switch to a cheaper broadband, phone or TV deal

You might be able to save money by switching to a different broadband, phone or TV provider. Social tariffs can provide a safety net if you’re on certain benefits and are struggling to afford your broadband or phone services.

Access free broadband

Access free broadband if you are unemployed and looking for work- through TalkTalk and DWP.

Get help with school costs

If you have a child in school, you may be able to get help with school costs, including school meals, transport and uniform.

Check if you can pay less for your TV license

If you can’t afford to pay for a TV licence up front you can pay weekly, fortnightly, monthly or every 3 months. You won’t save money but spreading the cost will make payments more manageable. If you don’t watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, you might not have to pay for a licence at all.

Check if you have to pay on the TV Licensing website.

Save money on your travel costs

You might be able to spend less on travel costs by shopping around for cheaper car insurance, buying a season ticket for the train or bus, applying for a railcard or applying for an older person’s bus pass.

Get your prescriptions delivered for free

Get your prescriptions delivered for free through Royal Mail Health and Pharmacy2U.

Save money on NHS prescriptions

If you need regular prescriptions you can save money by buying a prepayment certificate. 

Get support to maximise your income through work

The Growth Company can help you secure employment, gain new skills to progress in employment and support to grow and fund your own business.

Check you are being paid the right wage

If you are working, check that your pay meets national minimum wage and that your employer doesn’t owe you money.

Access free sanitary products and other toiletries

Access free sanitary products and other toiletries through your local food bank. If you are a university student you may be able to access free sanitary products through your students union. Morrisons are also giving out period product packs in store, just go to the customer service desk and as for a 'package for Sandy' or a 'period product pack'

The Cost of Living Crisis has pushed financial worries to the forefront of everyone's minds. If you are struggling with your mental health, there is help for anyone, no matter what you’re going through.