Cost of Living: Local Help

Poor mental health can make earning and managing money harder. And worrying about money can make your mental health worse. It can start to feel like a vicious cycle.

We can often feel embarrassed or overwhelmed when talking about money and mental health problems, but you are not alone. Let us tackle them both, together.

Being on a low income and struggling with rising costs means you may struggle to purchase essential items, such as food or utilities. Across Manchester there is a network of charities and support groups that work to provide local people with food, clothing and other essentials.

Our Food For All Team offer support for those experiencing food poverty and mental health problems. You can also access support from an Advice Worker at these sessions. Find out about all our sessions here.

Manchester City Council Cost of Living Advice Line 0800 023 2692 or text 07860 022876 (Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm)

If you are struggling to pay your water bill you can contact United Utilities so they are aware and can offer support.

If you are claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or some other benefits you may be able to access social tariffs for cheaper broadband and phone packages. Find out more on the Ofgem website.

Greater Manchester Poverty Action (GMPA) provides a map of foodbanks, furniture repairs and advice centres in Manchester.

Streetsupport provides further details of support available across Greater Manchester for people in poverty and experiencing homelessness.

You can apply to the local welfare assistance scheme in Manchester, which may provide help with furniture or energy payments.

Mustard Tree offer help with affordable furniture.

Further help can also be found here:

Benefits – including information about all available benefits, help with mortgage interest, housing payments, council tax support and winter fuel payments

Manchester Community Central – Resources and Information

Manchester City Council Helping Hands

Help for Households – GOV.UK