Advice from Lewes CAB

As the cost-of-living crisis continues with rising food and energy prices we look at what you can do to cope with soaring prices and what to do if you are in financial difficulties.

Lewes District Citizens Advice can provide help with income maximisation, budgeting and debt, food bank referrals and fuel and other vouchers. There is extra help available for pensioners.

The government has announced a number of measures to ease the cost of living crisis. These include the £650 Cost of Living Payment for households on means-tested benefits.

The Disability Cost of Living Payment entitles disabled people to a payment of £150.

The £400 Energy Bill Discount is automatic and will be applied in six instalments between October 2022 and March 2023.

In the winter months, pensioners can get between £100 and £300 to help pay heating bills. This winter, they will also receive an extra one-off £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment.

Further support is available to help with transport, utilities, housing and childcare costs.

If your energy problem is urgent, for example your energy supply is about to be cut off, Citizens Advice consumer helpline will usually transfer your call directly to the Extra Help Unit.

You can contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133

It is important to remember that you are not alone and there is support out there. What you can get will depend on your circumstances. You can contact Lewes District Citizens Advice to seek tailored support at info@lewesca.onmicrosoft.com or by calling 01273 007557