York Talk Money Fortnight – Monday 2 November to Friday 13 November
Small actions can make a big difference when it comes to managing your money. From setting a monthly budget to comparing energy prices or talking through bills over a cuppa, it all counts.
City of York Council’s benefits advisors and money saving experts will be on hand at two locations in the city over the next two weeks as part of November’s York Talk Money fortnight (2-13 November).
Monks Cross Shopping Centre Wednesday 4 November 10.00am – 2.00pm
Tesco Clifton Moor –Wednesday 11 November 10.00am – 2.00pm
Run by City of York Council and partners across the city, including Citizens Advice, Peasholme Charity, Age UK, York Energy Advice and OCAY, York Talk Money Fortnight aims to help people who are struggling financially by sharing information and advice, and signposting to local help and support.
Our friendly advisors can help residents of all ages make sure you’re making your money go as far as possible, whether it’s claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to, or checking that you’re on the cheapest tariff for your utility bills.
York Talk Money partners have come up with five top tips to help you make your money go further this winter:
- Make sure you are not paying more than you need for Council Tax
- – Discounts and exemptions are available for some disabled people, carers, single people or students.
- – Council Tax Support can help people on a low income
Check if you can lower your bill at www.york.gov.uk/counciltax
- Check you’re on the cheapest tariff
Contact your energy supplier and Yorkshire Water to make sure you’re on the cheapest tariff and see how much you can save or use an accredited price comparison website to find and compare energy tariffs.
If you are behind with your payments, ask you supplier for help.
- Check whether your children might be eligible for Free School meals
If your household receives Universal Credit, you could save up to £495 per year per child on school lunches.
Check with your child’s/children’s school to find out more.
- Get help to buy food and milk for pre-school children – Healthy Start
If you’re more than ten weeks pregnant or have a child under four years old, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.
It’s quick and easy to apply
- online at www.healthystart.nhs.uk/how-to-apply
- or by calling 0300 330 7010
- Extra help for older people – don’t miss out
Pension Credit provides extra income if you’re retired and on a low income, but one in three people who are entitled to it don’t claim. It is separate from your State Pension and you can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.
If you get Pension Credit, you can also get other help, including Winter Fuel Allowance and the Warm Home Discount Scheme
Don’t miss out. Check if you are eligible for Pension Credit www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
Claim online at www.gov.uk/pension-credit if you already claim State Pension and you don’t have dependent children or young people.
Or call the Pension Credit claim line and fill in the application over the phone on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 6.00pm)
Councillor Katie Lomas: Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion, said: “With the cost of living continuing to rise, being able to get local, friendly support and advice about your money is so important.
“York Talk Money gives us all the opportunity to talk about money and how we can make sure we’re getting all the support we’re eligible for. But it’s important that residents know that advice is available all year round in their local communities.
“If you’re worrying, struggling or simply not sure whether you’re getting everything you’re entitled to, please do get in touch.”
Hannah, a single parent was struggling with debt, rent arrears and household bills. With support from one of our benefits advisors, she secured over £2,300 in financial gains, cleared rent arrears, resolved energy billing problems, and gained the confidence to manage her finances independently and plan for the future.
Hannah explains how the York Talk Money advisor helped her: “The advisor was approachable, understanding and always willing to help. Their support has made me feel better, reduced my worries and has helped me take control of my finances and move forward.”
More general support and advice is available all year round. Money advice and support for everyone. You can pop along to one of around 20 weekly drop-in advice sessions at local community centres around the city offering free support with money worries. Ask at your community venue, find list at www.york.gov.uk/TalkMoney or call 01904 551556 for more details.