Money and debt
Support and advice to help with the cost of living and money worries.
Free school meals
Visit Free school meals, clothing vouchers and activities for more information.
If you already qualify for free school meals, you will automatically get a school meal voucher for the school holidays. Your child’s school will buy the voucher for you.
If you have questions about holiday vouchers, speak to your child’s school.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offer free advice on many issues including:
- debt
- benefits
- employment
- energy
- housing
Visit the following website for your local area:
Cost of living
The Independent Food Aid Network’s step-by-step guide help those struggling to afford food, identify cash first or income-focused local support.
Worrying About Money step by step guide
Other support with the cost of living is available on GOV.UK
Credit Unions
Credit Unions provide savings, loans and other services.
- Carlisle and District Credit Union
- Northern Community Bank
- Whitehaven, Egremont and District Credit Union
Housing grants
Cumberland Home Improvement Agency is a service provided by the Council to help people to adapt or repair their homes in order to live safely and well at home.
It provides access to home-related grants for:
- gas safety
- measures required on leaving hospital
- hospital admission prevention
- home safety
Telephone: 01228 817 111
Email [email protected]
Other support services
Cumbria Law Centre - those on low incomes can get free legal advice on debt, benefits, housing and employment
The Turn2us Benefits Calculator - check if you can claim or increase your benefits
Help with the cost of living on the Money Helper website - a government website with helpful tools and guides
Christians Against Poverty helps anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. Visit the following websites: