News

For many households, the weeks after the New Year can be one of the most challenging times of the year financially. Extra spending, higher winter energy costs and rising cost of living can all add pressure to households’ budgets. If you are finding it difficult to keep up with bills, support is available and there are some practical steps you can take.

Check what help you are entitled to: 

Our Welfare Team can assist with welfare benefit checks to ensure you are receiving everything you are entitled to, they can help you with identifying benefits that you may be entitled to claim and check your entitlement, assist with completing benefit application forms or if required to apply online.  We can provide advice and solutions to sustain your tenancy if you are in financial difficulty and assist with energy vouchers to get you back on track.

For more information visit our website or email the team at welfare@fairhive.co.uk.

You can also access a welfare benefit calculator for free.

Do not ignore bills - talk early 

Rent arrears

Utility arrears 

Speak to your provider, options such as short-term payment breaks, hardship or support funds. Check your tariff and check for better deals.

Council Tax arrears

Contact your Local Authority, request an extended payment plan, apply for a discretionary payment.

The earlier you make contact; the more options are usually available.

Reduce energy costs where you can 

Small changes can help lower energy bills during the winter months.

• Turn thermostats down slightly and wear extra layers
• Use draft excluders and close curtains at night
• Only heat rooms you are using where possible
• Switch off appliances rather than leaving on standby
• Use energy lightbulbs

If you would like advice regarding fuel debt, please contact our Welfare Team on 01296 732600 or email welfare@fairhive.co.uk

LEAP offer a free service that helps people to keep warm and reduce their energy bills without costing any money. For more information visit their website.

Better Housing, Better Health are a charity that work locally to improve resident’s domestic warmth and improve the energy efficiency of your home. They provide free, confidential advice on issues such as financial help you may be entitled to and changing your energy supplier. 

Buckinghamshire Council’s Helping Hands team is also available to help direct people to the support that is right for them. If you are worried about access to food, fuel or other essentials, please contact Buckinghamshire Council’s Helping Hand team on 01296 531151.

Get free, confidential Money Advice 

You do not have to manage alone. Free advice services can help you:

• Create a realistic budget
• Prioritise essential bills
• Deal with debt and negotiate with Creditors

Trusted organisations such as Citizens Advice or Step change can offer confidential support

Citizens Advice contact - 0808 278 7938

Step change contact - 0800 138 1111

Food and Household Support

If money is tight for essentials, help is available:

• Foodbanks and community fridges
• Local welfare assistance schemes
• Community groups offering warm spaces or free meals

There is no shame in asking for help, these services exist to support people through difficult times.  We have a list of local foodbanks on our website.

Taking small steps and reaching out for support can make a big difference.