Getting support during the cost-of-living crisis

Many of us are facing new worries because of the cost-of-living crisis. If you’re having a hard time with things and it seems like there’s nothing anyone can do to help, there are ways that the government or organisations can help and guide you through these difficult times.

Have a look at the government’s ‘Help for households’ information about housing and the cost-of-living crisis. If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland there may be different or additional help available:

• Help during the cost-of-living crisis in Scotland
• Help with the cost of living in Wales
• Cost of living information and advice in Northern Ireland

If you are a tenant finding it hard to pay your rent, see MoneyHelper’s guide on handling rent problems.

Know your rights as a homeowner or tenant

• Citizens Advice or Shelter in England and Wales
• Citizens Advice Scotland or Shelter Scotland
• Advice NI or Housing Advice NI in Northern Ireland

Problems with housing or homelessness

• in England, Wales and Scotland, contact Shelter
• in Northern Ireland, contact the Simon Community

Worried about energy costs

• Money Saving Expert's website has lots of help and advice around managing household bills
• check the Warm Welcome Campaign website to find a free, warm space being offered within your area

Read our information and advice about housing and mental health

For information about your rights at work, check the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS).

If you are unemployed

• check what support you can receive from the government if you’re looking for work
• have a look at MoneyHelper’s guide for redundancy or job loss

Read our information and advice about work and mental health

If you are having problems buying food essentials

• check the Trussell Trust website – once you have been referred with a food bank voucher they can help you find your nearest food bank. They can also offer advice via their Help though Hardship helpline and provide emergency food for people in crisis
• the Association of UK Dieticians has tips for cooking on a budget
• the BBC has lots of budget recipes, advice and tips
• if you have children, check if your child is eligible for free school meals, either by discussing this with their school or through your local council

Read our information and advice about diet and mental health

You may be feeling anxious, worried or concerned due to issues caused by the cost-of-living crisis. There is support available to help you.

Anxiety UK

Anxiety UK was established in 1970 and is run by and for those with anxiety, offering an extensive range of support services designed to help support those affected by anxiety disorders, anxiety and anxiety-based depression.

Services available include:

Helpline services - 03444 775 774, open from 9:30am to 17:30pm Mon to Friday, along with a text service 07537 416905 and ‘Ask Anxia’ chatbot service, available 24/7 for all anxiety queries at anxietyuk.org.uk. See Helpline services for more information.

Anxiety UK also offer fast access to a range of psychological therapy services, including counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), clinical hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, with appointments available in person, online and by telephone. See Therapy services for more information.