Struggling households are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for assistance with the cost of living, such as vouchers and financial aid, in preparation for the Budget.
A website called Lightning Reach assists individuals in finding and applying for various support programs, offering access to more than 2,500 partners. The platform estimates that the average user receives around £750 in assistance. Since its launch in 2021, Lightning Reach has connected over 200,000 people to over £20 million in financial aid, including grants from councils and charities.
Among the partners affiliated with the Lightning Reach platform are the British Gas Energy Trust, TSB, and Lambeth Council. To determine your eligibility, you can visit the Lightning Reach application portal.
Ren Yi Hooi, the Founder and CEO of Lightning Reach, emphasized the increasing need for swift and coordinated support, especially with the forthcoming Budget expected to impose new tax hikes, further straining household finances.
If concerns about falling behind on bills arise, it is advisable to promptly reach out to your provider to explore available assistance options. This may involve checking for the most cost-effective plan or potentially arranging a payment break to alleviate temporary financial burdens.
Additionally, contacting your local council to inquire about eligibility for aid through the Household Support Fund is worthwhile. This fund, allocated by local councils to low-income households, may offer vouchers or cash payments, depending on the council’s discretion.
For instance, the City of York Council has recently initiated the distribution of one-off £100 payments from the Household Support Fund this winter to those receiving council tax bill assistance. The payment is a direct deposit into your bank account and does not require repayment.
Ensuring access to available support is crucial, especially as the cost of living crisis deepens and household energy debt reaches record levels. By proactively exploring assistance options, households can mitigate financial challenges and maintain stability during challenging times.
