Cost of living help – Dorset council
Money is tight, life is worrying and many of us haven’t asked for help before. It’s important to act early to prevent smaller problems turning into bigger ones. We’re working with Dorset citizen’s advice to offer advice and support on:
- money, debt and benefits
- access to food
- housing
- support for children
- mental health and wellbeing
- energy, water, phone and broadband costs
- employment
- general help
Contact your local citizens advice centre to find out more about their outreach services
- Website
Citizens Advice Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole - BCP citizen’s bureau advice line
0808 2787 939
Their advice line is open between 10am and 4pm every day from Monday to Friday (except for holiday closures). You can read about the overall government support for the cost of living on GOV.UK.
Benefits information
Maximise your income and double check your right to benefits.
Help to Claim is a national helpline run by citizens advice. For Universal credit claims please phone 0800 144 8444.
Extra money for living costs with pension credit
Pension credit is extra money for living costs and unlocks helps with:
- heating costs
- NHS treatment
- housing benefit
- support for mortgage interest
- council tax discount
- free TV licence (over 75s)
This is for people over the state pension age and on a low income. Find out more about pension credit.
Problems paying your council tax
If you’re having problems paying your council tax, contact us and we’ll do all we can to help.
See our council tax pages for further advice about what to do if you have problems paying your Council Tax.
Money advice including debts and bills
Visit the citizens advice Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole for free, independent and confidential advice.
Charitable grants
Help may be available through a charitable grant and other support, depending on your circumstances and needs. Search for charitable grants.
Get help with savings if you’re on a low income (help to save)
Help to Save is a savings account. It allows those who are entitled to working tax credit or receiving universal credit to get an additional 50p for every £1 they save. Help to save is backed by the government so all savings in the scheme are secure. Find out more about the help to save scheme.
Carers allowance
You could get £69.70 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits. You do not have to be related to or live with the person you care for. Find out more about carers allowance
Get help to quit smoking and save money
Stopping smoking will save a lot of money and is beneficial to your health at any age. Visit LiveWell Dorset for advice and information about stopping smoking.
Household Support Fund for pensioners
If you are struggling with money and are on a low income, you may be able to apply for the Household Support Fund.
Help with your application
You can get help with your application form at your local citizens advice office. You could also ask a trusted friend or family member to complete the form for you.
BCP Citizen’s Bureau advice line
0808 2787 939
Their advice line is open between 10am and 4pm every day from Monday to Friday (except for holiday closures).