Cost of living support 2023 has been another challenging year, particularly as we continue to feel the impacts of the cost of living crisis. If you’re worried about money, debt, mental health or anything else, please reach out for help - we’re here for you. You can find out about the support available across Camden on the inside covers of this paper. In this edition we’ve also included some free and low-cost local events and activities for people of all ages on the back page and information about our ‘warm welcome’ spaces which remain open to provide a warm and safe place to relax and meet up with others. As ever, so many of you are continuing to provide vital help and support across Camden. Thank you for everything you’re doing - it always makes me really proud to see our communities come together to look out for each other. I wish you all the best for 2024. Councillor Pat Callaghan, Acting Leader of Camden Council
We’re here for you Support from Camden Council This festive season is going to feel very different for many. Camden Council is here to support you this winter. On the inside covers and back page of this paper, you will find support from the council and local organisations. If you, or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Get in touch
Help with energy bills and staying warm If you’re a Camden Council tenant: contact Camden’s Home Energy Advice Team and ask about a ‘warm and well’ home visit, or contact them for advice:
If you’re struggling to afford the essentials – including food and energy bills – or if you have debt, help is available. Find advice at camden.gov.uk/CostOfLiving Contact a Camden Advice Network organisation. Find out more at camden.gov.uk/CAN
Scan the QR code to view our latest Cost of Living Crisis Booklet.
EnergyEfficiencyHomeAdvice@camden.gov.uk 020 7974 4444 (option 9) If you’re a private renter, leaseholder or council tenant: contact Energy Advice London for advice on saving energy and water, or for help accessing financial support: e 0808 196 8260 nergyadvice.london
ind and visit your nearest ‘warm welcome’ space at F camden.gov.uk/WarmWelcome
Support with food in Camden
Call the council on 020 7974 4444 (option 9)
If you’re in urgent need of support with food:
S ign up to receive the latest updates on support available with the cost of living crisis and more, straight to your inbox at camden.gov.uk/newsletter
findfood.camden.gov.uk camden.gov.uk/access-food 020 7974 4444 (option 9) If you are pregnant or have a child under 2, get help to buy food and milk via the NHS Healthy Start Scheme: healthystart.nhs.uk 0300 330 7010 Whatever your situation, consider joining or starting a food co-op to regularly access low-cost food: cooperation.town
Gospel Oak
Job Hub
Community Advice Centre
CA M DEN
Supermarket GROCERIES • FRESH FRUIT & VEG • FRESH MEAT
Gospel Oak
camden.gov.uk/CostOfLiving 020 7974 4444 (option 9)
Gospel Oak
Free school meals At the moment, children registered for free school meals receive additional support, including free breakfast clubs and food vouchers in the holidays. If your child is in primary school, they’ll already be receiving free school meals but they must be signed up to the scheme to receive this extra support. If your child is in secondary school, check if they’re eligible and sign them up today: camden.gov.uk/free-school-meals 020 7974 4444 (option 9)
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Help with benefits, money worries and debt Sign up for the council’s free Money Advice Service for tailored advice and support with money and debt: camden.gov.uk/MoneyAdviceService
y Mone e Advic e Servic
Check you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to, and get budgeting tips, using the council’s Better Off Calculator: camden.gov.uk/BetterOff If you have a low income, check if you’re eligible for Council Tax Support for a reduction in council tax. If you are not working or earn less than £95.60 a week, you won’t have to pay anything – but you need to apply. Find out more: camden.gov.uk/CTS Check if you’re eligible for a payment from the council’s Cost of Living Crisis Fund and/or the government-funded Household Support Fund. Anyone who is eligible can apply – including private renters. Find out more: camden.gov.uk/COLCFund camden.gov.uk/HSF
Cost Of Living Crisis Fund
If you’re struggling with debt, get help today: National Debtline: 0808 808 4000 nationaldebtline.org Citizens Advice: citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/ help-with-debt If you’re struggling with council tax arrears, call the council on 020 7974 6414
If you need a loan, don’t be tempted to approach a loan shark or get a payday loan. Instead, consider credit unions or other ethical loan providers. credit-union.coop 020 7561 1786 info@credit-union.coop I f you owe a loan shark money, or if you’re being threatened, get confidential help stoploansharks.co.uk