Are you claiming all the financial support your family is entitled to this winter?

The high costs of energy, heating, electricity and especially rises in the cost of the normal weekly shop are all squeezing household budgets. Coupled that with many homeowners having had an increase on their mortgage payments due to the rise in interest rates and landlords increasing rents. This all means most households are really feeling the financial strain this winter, perhaps more severely than ever before.

Earlier in the year the government announced some Cost of Living Payments for those on qualifying benefits. These payments have been made at various times throughout the year with more payments to come. If your circumstances have changed you may become eligible for a qualifying benefit, such as Universal Credit, and therefore may be eligible for a Cost of Living Payment later in the year, even if you weren’t previously. These Cost of Living Payments will be made automatically to those who are eligible for them, and do not need to be applied for.

With costs rising across the board, including for childcare, we are urging all families to make sure they are receiving all the financial support they are entitled to this winter. A change in circumstances, whether that’s moving into work, using additional childcare or costs increasing may mean you are now eligible for support that you wouldn’t have been able to claim previously. This additional income, no matter how small, could make a significant difference to your household budget at this difficult time.

Our advisors know just how busy this time of year can be, so why not call our Family Benefits Advice Service to ensure you know exactly what support you are entitled to, and how to apply for it. Our skilled advisors are available on 028 9267 8200 or email hello@employersforchildcare.org. We provide advice and guidance on a wide range of support including Tax-Free Childcare, Universal Credit, Tax Credits and disability or social security benefits – and the additional support that the government is providing during this cost of living crisis.