Cost of living support

With costs going up, many residents will be worried about money right now. A range of financial support and advice is available to those who need it.  

If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for one of the following support schemes: 

• Universal Credit – a monthly payment that can help you with your living expenses and housing costs, including your rent. 
• Pension Credit - a payment for those who are over State Pension age and on a low income. An application for Pension Credit can be made up to four months before you reach State Pension age. Other benefits can also be linked to Pension Credit, including housing benefit, a free TV license, and the Winter Fuel Payment.
• Housing Benefit – a payment usually received through Universal Credit, to help you pay your rent. You can apply for Housing Benefits separately if you have reached state pension age. You can also apply separately if you live in supported, sheltered, or temporary housing. 
• Council Tax Support – help with paying your Council Tax bill if you are struggling. There is a government funded scheme for pension aged residents and a council funded scheme for working age residents.  
• Discretionary Housing Payments –further help if you are receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit and are finding it difficult to meet your housing costs. Read more about the eligibility criteria and apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment.
• Local Welfare Assistance – if you are struggling to pay bills and essentials, you may qualify for Local Welfare Assistance. 
• Free School Meals - all primary school children attending state school are automatically enrolled to receive free school meals. You can also find out if your child attending secondary school is eligible for free school meals, and apply online.  
• Mortgage advice - from Citizens Advice. 

You can get free financial advice from a variety of local and national services, including:  

• Citizens Advice Waltham Forest – an independent service providing advice on various issues including money, benefits, housing, employment, and more. They can also help you apply for further aid. 
• Age UK Waltham Forest - offer financial advice and support such as free benefits checks. They also offer assistance with benefit applications. This includes Pension Credit and Carers Allowance amongst others. 
• Debt Free Advice – provide expert advice if you are experiencing problem debt. 
• National Debt Line – an independent debt advice service providing free advice over the phone and online. They also provide practical support on their website such as budgeting tools.