Help with the cost of living

Pensioner winter support

We want to make sure sure our older tenants in need have the help they need to stay warm and well this winter. If you're worried about heating your home and staying well, please talk to us.  

The recent changes mean the Winter Fuel Allowance will now be restricted to only those on Pension Credit or other low-income benefits. 

You can read more about Pension Credit, check whether you're eligible to make a claim, and find out how to apply, below.

Barnsley Council is using the Household Support Fund, funded by the UK Government, to provide crucial aid to those who may not qualify for the Winter Fuel Allowance, making sure no one is left without the help they need during the colder months.

Pension Credit

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’ve over the state pension age and on a low income. It can also give you access to a range of other benefits including helping with housing costs, winter fuel payment, Council Tax, heating bills, and for those 75 or over - a free TV licence.

Although take up of Pension Credit is high, many people are missing out. 

Have you reached state pension age? Do you have a weekly income below £218.15 if you're single or £332.95 if you're in a couple? You could qualify for Pension Credit. If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, you have savings, or you have housing costs. If you're in a couple, you'll both need to have reached state pension age.

Personal budgeting support​ 

Our tenant support officers can assist tenants with advice on budgeting and how to manage money and looking at their individual circumstances to get more money coming in and less going out of the household. We help with things like lowering payment plans and getting the best deals on utilities.

Cost of Living Payment

You may be able to get a payment to help with the cost of living if you’re getting certain benefits or tax credits. If you’re eligible, you’ll be paid automatically in the same way you usually get your benefit or tax credits.

Help to Save

If you’re on a low income you can get help with savings through the Help to Save scheme, which is a type of savings account. It allows certain people entitled to Working Tax Credit or receiving Universal Credit to get a bonus of 50p for every £1 they save over 4 years.​ Help to Save is backed by the Government so all savings in the scheme are secure.

Cadent Foundation Green Doctor

Groundwork has partnered with the Cadent Foundation to support households to take control of their energy bills and stay warm and well. Green Doctors offer free, impartial advice and access other services and initiatives available.

They can provide different kinds of support, whether that’s advice on paying off debt with energy or water companies, or spotting other concerns for a referral to other services. 

Some of the reasons people ask for help are:

• struggling to pay energy bills
• finding it hard to manage fuel debt
• worrying about keeping warm or choosing between eating and heating
• feeling that the home is cold, damp or draughty
• respiratory problems e.g. asthma or a persistent cough

Use the buttons below to find out more or request a free Green Doctor referral.