This is what the government is doing to battle rising costs – and how it could impact you
An in-depth guide to the government’s cost of living support package and what measures are still to come.
Overlay
Money habits
Six places offering free financial advice
There’s lots of money advice out there, but who can you trust? In addition to our team of friendly advisors, here are six options to try.
If you’re worrying about your money, it can be hard to know where to get help. It’s important to speak to us as soon as you start to feel concerned about your money situation, but you can also get free, independent advice from helpful organisations and charities.
Here are six places to contact today for free advice and support about your money troubles.
PayPlan
If you’re struggling with the cost of living, checking that you’re receiving all the income you’re entitled to is crucial. If you're worried about debt, you can get free, confidential debt advice from our partners PayPlan.
They have loads of friendly advisors who could help you if increasing living costs are affecting your financial wellbeing.
StepChange
StepChange offers free expert advice to help you deal with your debts and get the support you need. You can get advice online or over the phone at a time that suits you and after they've looked at your budget, they can recommend a range of practical debt solutions based on your situation.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free advice on debt, benefits, housing, legal matters, employment and general consumer advice. You can talk to them online about a debt problem between 8am and 7pm from Monday to Friday, or you can call their debt helpline – it’s available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
If you can't hear or speak on the phone, you can type what you want to say: type 18001 then 0800 240 4420. Find out more about using Relay UK.
National Energy Action
National Energy Action (NEA) is the national charity that works to end fuel poverty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For advice on energy bills and keeping warm and safe at home, call 0800 304 7159, Monday to Friday from 10am to 12pm.
MoneyHelper
MoneyHelper cuts through the complexities of money matters and explains what you need to do and how you can do it. It offers impartial guidance that’s backed by the government and can recommend further, trusted support if you need it. In particular, they offer advice on debt, divorce and separation, setting up a new home, care and disability.
National Debtline
National Debtline is a charity that gives out free and independent debt advice over the phone and online. When you speak to an advisor, they’ll ask you about your income and spending, so make sure you have this information to hand.
The charity will also need details of who you owe money to and how much you owe them. Their advisors will then help you work out what you can afford to pay towards your debt, and offer guidance on debt solutions.
Looking for support with your finances?
We offer a free Financial Health Check that could help get your finances into shape.
Video banking calls may be recorded and service hours may apply. You’ll need a device that has a camera or webcam, and a connection to the Internet.
How to create a healthier relationship with your money
We spoke to financial wellness expert Melanie Eusebe about how to start creating a more positive relationship with your money.
This content is for information purposes only and shouldn’t be regarded as financial advice. While we’ve taken every effort to make sure this information is as accurate as possible, it has not been independently verified.