Support provided with cost of living

The current rise in the cost of living is putting a strain on the finances of many people across the UK. The Institute for Government explains how people’s disposable income, adjusted for inflation and after taxes and benefits, has been falling since late 2021. There is an urgent need for advice and guidance for those who will be the most affected.

Reed in Partnership has been delivering a series of Cost of Living Events specifically designed to help participants using our services across the country with this issue. These events form part of our commitment to social value, including the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the areas in which we operate.

Many of the people using our services – particularly to help them find employment – come from poorer households, which are likely to be experiencing higher levels of inflation, on average, than better-off households.

Events help with advice and guidance

Thousands of participants have so far attended nine Cost of Living Events to receive up to date information, advice and guidance on topics including money management, energy bill increases, mental health support and family budgeting.

These events saw some important interventions made – including one participant finding how to save £500 on their energy bill and another saving hundreds of pounds on school uniforms for her three young children.

The first of our Cost of Living Events ran in July at our Restart Scheme offices in Newcastle and Hull. The events focused on benefits advice, child care, and support that was available for families during the summer holidays.

We have run further events for South London residents, and in Watford, Chatham and Hastings in recent months.

We have been thankful for input from local councils, Shelter, water and energy companies, the Money and Pensions Service, Citizens Advice and other local partners who have contributed to helping our participants.

We are planning to hold similar events in the coming months, including in Durham, Consett and Peterlee.

New online toolkit launched

Reed in Partnership has also produced an online overview of cost of living support. This includes access to useful websites and tips for checking benefit entitlement, debt advice and support, money and mental wellbeing and childcare and family issues.

You can find and share our guidance at reedinpartnership.co.uk/costofliving