Where can I get help in the Midlands as the cost of living soars?
Site Admin • 14 October 2022
source:
ITV Network
published: 26 August 2022
Almost everyone will have heard of the cost of living crisis by now, but no-one can be sure exactly how it will affect them. From soaring energy and fuel bills to an increase in National Insurance and council tax payments, prices are set to increase dramatically over the next few days and weeks'.
Charities predict it will further push people into hunger, fuel poverty, and crippling debt.
What costs are rising?
- Ofgem has said the energy price cap will rise by 54% from April 1, affecting around 22 million customers
- People paying for energy on default tariffs by direct debit will see an increase of £693 from £1,277 to £1,971 per year, while prepayment customers will see an increase of £708 from £1,309 to £2,017
- Council tax bills increased at the beginning of the month. The increase depends on which local authority you live in and which band your house falls under
- Food prices are being affected by the inflation rise, with prices 5.2% higher than a year ago
- From April 6, National Insurance (NI) will increase by 1.25%
From free debt and employment advice, to providing affordable and healthy food, ITV have provided a listing of who is on hand to help across the West Midlands.
Other sources of support;
- Impact Pathways W.Mids: Cost of Living Support
- Birmingham City Council: Cost of Living Support
- W.Mids Combined Authority: Cost of Living
- NHS Black Country: Cost of living support hubs in Dudley
- City of Wolverhampton Council: Cost of Living Support
- Gov.UK: Cost of Living Payments 2023 to 2024
- Sandwell Council: Household Support Fund
- West Bromwich: Cost of Living Support Programme
In October Catalyst 4 Change celebrated a dual anniversary – its 10th year of driving change and its 5th as a Black Thrive partner. This wasn't just an event; it was a powerful assembly.
We are proud to share that Black Thrive Global has been awarded £5 million from The National Lottery Fund to deliver a five-year programme: Thriving Futures - Scaling Systems Change.
This funding will be instrumental in supporting our ongoing work with African and Caribbean men and women from Birmingham and Solihull who have lived experience of mental health.
Part of a recent Lottery grant will support the Therapy Care Initiative Pilot, a 1-year programme that will identify up to 10 recently bereaved UK families that require therapeutic support.
