Are you claiming all support you are entitled to in South Cambridgeshire this winter?

Sponsored feature with South Cambridgeshire District Council

South Cambridgeshire District Council has launched a new campaign to ensure residents do not miss out on the cost of living support they are eligible for.

From details of foodbanks to the funds available, and from energy-saving advice to home improvement grants, there are lots of ways to get help as the challenging economic climate continues to put pressure on household bills.

Research suggests about 25 per cent of some benefits go unclaimed, so the district council is urging residents to check their eligibility, even if they don’t think they would be eligible for anything.

It has brought together useful advice and links on its website at www.scambs.gov.uk/cost-of-living.

Cllr Bill Handley, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s lead cabinet member for communities, said: “Our new campaign centres around three key themes. They are encouraging residents to claim benefits they are entitled to, making full use of local foodbanks, and providing energy-saving advice.

“We have tried to make it as easy as possible for people to find out what they can access – and then take-up those offers of support.

“Cost-of-living issues continue to have an impact on so many people in our district, from those already struggling to those with moderate to good incomes. All this support is meant for people who live in South Cambridgeshire. So, whatever your household’s circumstances, it is likely that there is at least a little extra help or advice available, and we fully encourage you to take advantage of this.”

Foodbanks

If you’re struggling with the cost of grocery shopping, there are 20 foodbanks and food hubs across South Cambridgeshire that can provide valuable relief. They are available when needed, and you do not need a voucher to use most of them – you can just turn up on the day to receive food and other essentials.

Full details are listed on the council’s foodbank page and their locations can be viewed via this interactive map:

Benefits

A benefits calculator is available online and it takes less than 10 minutes to complete. It will tell you what national benefits you are eligible for, and give you some indication of local support available, such as a council tax discount.

Even if you do not think you are eligible for anything, the council recommends completing the calculation as you might not realise what’s available.

Household Support Fund

The Household Support Fund (HSF) provides immediate financial relief of £110. Find the eligibility criteria on the county council’s website before completing an application.

Energy saving advice

You can access useful tips and tricks to reduce energy usage, as well as details of fully funded schemes to provide upgrades to your home that can lead to lower energy bills.

Mental health

Pressure on household finances can take its toll on our mental health too, so there are links and advice on looking after your mental health.

Since declaring a cost-of-living crisis back in September 2022, the council has worked in partnership with local organisations to assist residents, including providing free electric blankets or slow cookers to over 800 people, establishing a mobile food hub that visits 6 villages weekly and evolving Warm Hubs into ongoing Community Hubs that continue to run in 12 locations in South Cambridgeshire, with more coming soon

Visit www.scambs.gov.uk/cost-of-living to find out more or call 01954 713 000 Information will also be provided in the upcoming edition winter 2023 of the Council’s residents’ publication, South Cambs Magazine.