Snow, ice and winter ready advice

Practical advice and links to help you prepare for and stay safe during winter and when experiencing snow and ice.

Help this winter

Winter can be a difficult time. Everyday pressures can feel heavier when you’re trying to keep warm, manage the costs of Christmas and deal with health challenges. Here are some ways to find support.

Find a warm spot, food bank and free meals near you

There are several warm spots open across Cumberland, providing a warm, welcoming space for people of all ages to visit this winter if they need it.

They are run by a range of different organisations including churches, village halls, local councils and libraries.

Find local support for cost of living and welfare

Concern for someone's well-being

If you are concerned for someone's wellbeing contact Cumberland Council's health and wellbeing social care team for more advice.

Find out more in our Health and Social Care section of our website.

Find Help and support for those aged 50 years and over.

Emergency help

If you are experiencing a financial crisis, you may be able to get help from the Household Support Fund. It provides one‑off support for essential costs to households that have no other way to pay for what they need.

Apply for the Household Support Fund

Find other sources of help with the cost of living.

Domestic abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, we have a duty to provide accommodation and support.

Get domestic abuse support

Homelessness and housing

If you are homeless now or in danger of losing your accommodation contact us:

Email (Allerdale): [email protected]
Email (Carlisle): [email protected]
Email (Copeland): [email protected]
Telephone: 0300 373 3730

Find more information on Homelessness.

You can also get help by contacting Shelter.

If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough, visit the StreetLink website.

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

You may be eligible for DHP to help with rent or housing costs.

Apply for Discretionary Housing Payments

Bereavement services

Find Bereavement help and support or contact the team.

Help for families

Cumberland Family Hubs provide a range of useful information to support you and your family.

Family Action provides advice and guidance on all aspect of family life