People on a low income may be be due financial help from their local council this winter

People on a low income may be due financial help from their local council this winter. People working full-time may also be able to pause Council Tax payments to ease some of the festive financial pressure. The colder months can put additional pressure on household finances, especially as energy bills have now gone up by 10 per cent and the temperatures are continuing to drop. However, winter also tends to increase the chances of boilers breaking down or essential appliances such as cookers or washing machines going on the blink.

Replacing white goods can be costly, but no matter what your income levels are, your local council may be able to help if you find yourself in an unexpected situation that puts more strain on your finances. Something as simple as asking for your next Council Tax payment to be put on hold could provide immediate relief from money worries – just phone your local council and explain your situation.

Families and individuals on a low income or income-related benefits may also be able to get cash help from their local council. Councils across Scotland have funding to help people in financial need during the ongoing cost of living crisis and again, all you need to do is call and explain your situation. If you are on a benefit such as Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Pension Credit, your council may be able to offer advice or check if you are missing out on any additional unclaimed benefits, discounts or redactions.

Every local council in Scotland has their own service with different rules and may be able to offer help with loans or grants, food vouchers, fuel vouchers and recycled clothes or household items. The Scottish Welfare Fund is also a good source of financial help which provides Community Care Grants, to help people live independently, and Crisis Grants, which provide a safety net in a disaster or emergency.

A Crisis Grant is a one-off payment that can provide much-needed cash during an emergency, but it cannot be given to support your income long-term. To get a Crisis Grant you need to be on a low income, however, this does not mean you need to be currently claiming benefits. A Crisis Grant can be given to cover the costs of an emergency such as a fire or flood at home, losing money, facing domestic abuse, or facing a gap in income due to redundancy or other changes at work.

If you do get a Crisis Grant, your local council will look at helping you with your most urgent living costs, such as food and heating costs. Many local councils have welfare rights advisers who can provide support and advice on benefits and entitlements. You can apply directly to your local council for these grants, and most councils aim to give an outcome within two working days, though some may take longer due to increased applications.

In conclusion, with the ongoing cost of living crisis and the challenges that winter can bring, it is essential for people on low incomes to be aware of the financial support available from their local councils. By reaching out and exploring the options for grants, loans, and other assistance, individuals and families can alleviate some of the financial burdens they may be facing during these difficult times. It is crucial to remember that help is available, and seeking support can make a significant difference in managing financial challenges effectively.