Money Matters update: Helpful advice on hand as we enter the Festive Season

As the festive season gets in full swing this can also be quite a stressful time for some households as they face the added pressures of end of year celebrations with the need to balance their budgets. There’s no denying that in the past two Christmases this has been compounded with the added pressures of inflation on food and energy costs.

Here at Great Places, we’re all too aware of the added pressures this has placed on our customers which has made the advice offered through our Money Matters Team even more important.

Alastair Cooper our Financial Resilience Manager highlights some of the support the team can offer help those worried about the financial pressures around the festive season and the how the Money Matters Team may be able to help.

“The Money Matters Team can offer a range of support all year round – not just for Christmas.”

Advice and Help on Offer 

The Money Matters Team may be able to help customers who are concerned about their finances in the following ways:

• Help you maximise your income – For instance, if you are missing out on any welfare benefits, they will advise you about what else you could claim and how to claim it.
• Guide you in how to challenge any incorrect welfare benefit decisions.
• Explain changes to the welfare benefits system and how they might affect you.
• Assist you in matters relating to utility and water debt.
• Advise you about how to address problem debt and help you apply for grants or funds that you might benefit from.
• Offer budgeting advice.
• Refer you to any additional support and financial assistance you might be entitled to.
• Apply for financial help from Local Authorities.

Alongside financial advice the team also has a dedicated Energy Advisor who can provide advice on support for customers who may be struggling to pay their energy bills.

How to Access Help 

Accessing support is simple and straightforward. You email the team at moneymatters@greatplaces.org.uk or speak to your Neighbourhood Services Manager and ask them to make a referral to the team on your behalf.

Remember whatever time of year the Money Matters Team is on hand to help!