In collaboration with Age UK South Gloucestershire and Severn Wye, the council will offer residents energy-saving tips, budget-friendly recipe ideas, information on free activities and places to visit, health advice, and guidance on accessing financial support, budgeting, and debt management.
Residents experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for assistance through the council’s Crisis and Resilience Fund, designed to support low-income households facing financial shocks. Additional support available to all includes budgeting workshops, debt advice, assistance with accessing benefits, help with food security, and cookery classes.
“"Winter can be a difficult time for many households, whether that’s because of increased energy costs, pressure on family budgets or concerns about staying warm and well during the colder months. We’re committed to doing everything we can to support residents, from practical help through our Eat and Heat campaign and warm packs, to financial assistance, advice and community support. I encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit to find out what help is available and come along to one of our pop-up events to speak to us and our partners."
As part of the initiative, 1,000 warm packs containing items such as socks, hats, gloves, and hot water bottles will be distributed to pensioners and families in need via the council’s One Stop Shops and partner organisations.
A series of pop-up events will also bring information and advice directly to those who need it most. These events will commence at the council’s One Stop Shops in early November and will subsequently visit other locations across the district. Further details can be found at www.southglos.gov.uk/costofliving.
