Local support with heating, food, and household items

A close-up of two pairs of hands holding a cardboard donation box

Charities, schemes, and support services across the UK are heading into the busiest period of the year when they’ll help thousands of individuals and families get through the festive season with support for food, heating, and everyday living costs.

If you’re worried about how you’ll afford the rising cost of living, read on to find out where you can get help in your community.

Help with food

If you’re finding there’s little left over for food after paying all the bills a food bank is a good place to start.

Food banks give free food parcels to people who need them. You can find your nearest food bank through the Trussell Trust network or through your local council.

Some food banks will ask for a referral from a support worker, doctor, or advice centre, but some will let you visit directly.

Community Fridge is a service where locals can meet up and donate food that would otherwise go to waste. Find your closest Community Fridge at www.hubbub.org.uk/the-community-fridge.

Some charities and local groups also run free meal programmes, especially for families, older people, or those living alone.

Find out what’s available near you by checking with your local council, visiting a community centre, or searching online for local support services.

If you have children, you may be able to get help with school meals or food vouchers during school holidays. You can check if your child qualifies for free school meals at www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals.

Heating and energy bills

If you’re finding it hard to pay your energy bills, many councils offer a Household Support Fund which can help community members in need to cover energy and water bills.

The fund is aimed at anyone who is vulnerable or struggling to pay for essentials and you don’t need to be receiving benefits to be eligible. Check with your local council to find out what support is available.

It’s also a good idea to contact your energy supplier directly. Most suppliers have hardship schemes or grants for customers who are struggling to pay.

The charity Turn2us keeps an updated list of energy and water company support funds.

If you need advice, you can contact Citizens Advice for free. They can help you check what benefits or grants you might be able to claim and guide you through the application process.

Household essentials

If you need help with things like bedding, clothing, or basic furniture, many councils and charities run household support programs.

You can ask your council about their Local Welfare Assistance Scheme. Some charities, such as Family Fund, also offer grants for essential household items.

You can also look on local community pages, Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle at www.freecycle.org to find items being given away for free in your area.

Habinteg also has a Tenant Support Fund to help tenants who are experiencing extreme hardship. Speak to your Neighbourhood Coordinator about applying.

If you’re not sure who your Neighbourhood Coordinator is, contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 365 3100 or email direct@habinteg.org.uk for help.

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