MP Neil Coyle has created a ‘Cost of Living Support Booklet’ so Southwark residents know about all the financial support available to them.
The MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark said not knowing how to access help is “one of the biggest barriers” to those struggling to pay bills.
His guide details how to get support from the council, government, homelessness charities, food banks, and more – with contact details and easy-to-read explainers.
http://southwarknews.co.uk/news/politics/cost-of-living-crisis-government-announces-country-wide-energy-bill-discounts-but-southwark-residents-may-need-more/
Neil Coyle, who runs a food bank from his Jamaica Road constituency office, said: “Tackling the damage the Tories are doing from opposition is not easy, but I’m determined to do what I can to support people in our community in these extremely difficult times.
“Through my role on the Work and Pensions Select Committee I know that one of the biggest barriers people experience is knowing what support is available and how to access help.
“I hope this practical leaflet will help people worried about making ends meet with information on extra benefits, mortgages, energy and internet costs and more. As ever, if you need my help to access support, please just get in touch. I’m happy to serve!”
http://southwarknews.co.uk/news/politics/neil-coyle-talks-cost-of-living-from-the-food-bank-he-set-up-in-his-constituency-office/
Council support available includes the Southwark Emergency Support Scheme which helps with unexpected crises, a hardship fund and the Southwark Cost of Living Fund.
The booklet explains how pension credit can be a gateway to free NHS prescriptions, cold weather allowances and a £324 cost of living payment.
Many won’t realise that many of the major energy companies have grant schemes for those unable to pay their electricity bills – which are also listed.
A ‘food support’ section outlines the food banks and community pantries across the borough, complete with opening hours and contact details.
To read the guide, go to: https://sites.google.com/neilcoyle.org.uk/costoflivingguide/home?pli=1. Physical copies will soon be available which can be collected from Neil’s constituency office at 149-151 Jamaica Rd, London SE16 4SH.
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