Struggling households are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for assistance with the rising cost of living, such as vouchers and financial aid, in anticipation of the upcoming Budget.
Lightning Reach, a platform with more than 2,500 partners, assists individuals in discovering and applying for support programs. The average user of Lightning Reach receives around £750 in assistance, and the platform has connected over 200,000 people to over £20 million in financial aid, including grants from councils and charities, since its launch in 2021.
The Lightning Reach website features partners like the British Gas Energy Trust, TSB, and Lambeth Council. To check eligibility, individuals can access the Lightning Reach application portal.
Ren Yi Hooi, the Founder and CEO of Lightning Reach, emphasized the pressing need for unified support as the Budget is anticipated to further strain household finances with new tax hikes.
If concerned about falling behind on payments, contacting service providers promptly to explore available assistance options is advised. Providers may help determine the best plan or offer temporary payment relief.
Additionally, reaching out to local councils to inquire about eligibility for aid through the Household Support Fund is recommended. This fund, distributed by local authorities to low-income households, may offer vouchers or cash payments based on each council’s discretion.
For instance, City of York Council is currently distributing one-time £100 payments from the Household Support Fund this winter to eligible individuals receiving council tax bill assistance. The payment is a non-repayable direct deposit to the recipient’s bank account.
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