We understand that the increases in the cost of living impacts our communities. If you are struggling with the cost of food, energy and other bills you are not alone and help is available. There is a range of national and local support available below.
If you have concerns about the welfare of an individual, you will find what to do on the safeguarding section of this website.
Local support
Borough support
Each of our borough councils have a number of resources available to support:
GLA Cost of Living Hub
GLA Cost of Living Hub provides information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you’re in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres. The website also provides support if money worries are affecting your mental health.
Debt Free London
Debt Free London can offer help with budgeting, money worries and more.
National support
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) England
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) England offers free advice to individuals on a wide spectrum of issues e.g. cost of living, debt management, housing health, immigration etc.
Moneyhelper
Moneyhelper brings together the support and services of three government-backed financial guidance providers: the Money Advice Service, the Pensions Advisory Service and Pension Wise.
Help with healthcare costs
Although most NHS treatment is free, there are still some costs you may need to pay – for example your prescription costs or travel costs to hospital appointments.
Prescription costs
Check if you can get free prescriptions on the NHS website.
NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate
The NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate will save you money if you pay for your NHS prescriptions and pay for more than 3 items in 3 months, or 11 items in 12 months.
Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme
If you’re referred to hospital or other NHS premises for specialist NHS treatment or diagnostic tests by a doctor, dentist or another primary care health professional, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme.
You can check which help with healthcare costs you are eligible for by completing this quick survey.