Struggling with rising bills, food, housing, or the stress that comes with it? You are not alone. The cost of living crisis is affecting many across the UK, and here in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, specific support is available.
This easy-to-read, actionable guide cuts through the noise, providing up-to-date, key resources for saving money, accessing financial aid, and finding vital local support to help you feel more secure and in control.
Important Updates & What’s New (as of June 2025):
- No new DWP Cost of Living Payments planned: The government has stated no further direct Cost of Living Payments are scheduled after the ones that ended in early 2024.
- Household Support Fund Extended: The Household Support Fund has been extended until March 2026, with local councils (including BCP) continuing to provide emergency support for food, energy, and essential items. Contact BCP Council’s Cost of Living Hub directly to see what support is available in your area.
- National Living Wage Increase: As of 1 April 2025, the National Living Wage for those aged 21 and over has increased to £12.21 an hour. Check if you’re being paid correctly! (The Real Living Wage is higher and voluntary).
Understanding the Impact & Prioritising Wellbeing
Financial stress can severely impact your mental health. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. This guide includes resources to help you manage not just your money, but your emotional wellbeing too. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Housing & Bills Help: Keeping a Roof Over Your Head & Lights On
Rent & Mortgage Support: Stay in Your Home
UK-Wide Support:
- Shelter – Free, expert housing advice (0808 800 4444). Crucial for understanding your rights and options if you’re facing eviction or struggling with payments.
- StepChange Debt Charity – Comprehensive, free debt advice, including help with mortgage or rent arrears. They can negotiate with creditors on your behalf.
- National Debtline – Call 0808 808 4000 or visit their website for free debt advice, including specific guidance on housing debts.
BCP-Specific Help:
- BCP Council Housing Support – Explore Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP). These are short-term payments to help with housing costs if you receive housing benefit or Universal Credit and still need help.
- Citizens Advice BCP – Local advisors offer confidential, impartial advice on rent arrears, housing issues, and navigating local support schemes.
Energy Bills & Grants: Keeping Warm & Connected
UK-Wide Schemes (Check eligibility annually):
- Warm Home Discount Scheme – A £150 rebate off your electricity bill for eligible low-income households or those on Pension Credit.
- Winter Fuel Payment – An annual payment of £100-£300 for pensioners to help with heating costs.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) – Funds energy efficiency measures (like insulation, boiler upgrades) for low-income households. Contact your energy provider or local council.
- Fuel Bank Foundation – Supports individuals on prepayment meters who are at risk of self-disconnection. Often accessed via local partners like food banks or Citizens Advice.
BCP-Specific Energy Help:
- Dorset Community Energy – Offers free energy-saving tips, home energy surveys, and advice on grants for energy efficiency improvements.
- BCP Council’s Household Support Fund – This fund often provides emergency support for fuel costs (e.g., fuel vouchers). Crucial to apply directly to the council.
- Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP): Check if LEAP operates in BCP. They offer free home energy advice visits and can provide free energy-saving measures.
Food & Essentials: Eating Well on a Budget
3. Food Banks & Cheap Meals: Immediate Food Support
UK-Wide Initiatives:
- Trussell Trust – Use their website to find your nearest food bank. You usually need a referral from a local agency (e.g., Citizens Advice, doctor).
- Olio – Free surplus food app. Connects neighbours with local businesses and each other to share unwanted food (and household items) for free.
- Too Good To Go – Buy “Surprise Bags” of delicious surplus food from local restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets at a discounted price.
BCP Local Food Support:
- BCP Food Banks – The official BCP Council list of local food banks and community food support initiatives.
- The Salvation Army Poole – Provides free meals and essential support. Check their local branch for specific times and services.
- Community Fridges (Bournemouth & Poole) – Locations where anyone can collect surplus food for free, reducing waste and supporting the community.
Smart Shopping & Discount Schemes: Stretch Your Budget Further
- Supermarket Loyalty Schemes: Sign up for Tesco Clubcard, Nectar (Sainsbury’s), MyWaitrose, etc., for personalised discounts and points.
- Budgeting Apps for Food: Consider apps like Mealime (meal planning to reduce waste) or Shopmium/Checkoutsmart (cashback on groceries).
- Yellow Sticker Shopping: Learn the best times for “yellow sticker” discounts at your local supermarkets (often late afternoon/evening).
- Batch Cooking: Cook larger quantities and freeze portions to save time and money.
- Grow Your Own (Even Small Scale): Consider growing herbs on a windowsill or joining a local allotment group if available.
Money & Debt Advice: Regain Financial Control
Benefits & Financial Aid: Check Your Entitlements!
UK-Wide Benefit Checkers:
- EntitledTo – Quick and easy benefit calculator to see what you could be claiming. Don’t leave money on the table!
- Turn2Us – Comprehensive grants and benefits calculator, also lists charitable grants you might be eligible for.
BCP-Specific Grants & Schemes:
- BCP Council Cost of Living Hub – Your go-to for local grants, schemes, and emergency support. Check this page regularly for updates.
Free Debt Help: Get Expert, Impartial Support
- National Debtline – 0808 808 4000. Free, confidential, independent debt advice. They can help you create a budget and understand your options.
- StepChange Debt Charity – As mentioned, they offer free, tailored advice to help you manage debt, from budgeting to debt management plans.
- MoneyHelper (part of MaPS) – Free, impartial advice on all money matters, including budgeting, debt, and pensions.
- BCP Money Advice (Citizens Advice BCP):
- Citizens Advice BCP – Provides free, confidential, and impartial debt advice tailored to your local circumstances. Highly recommended for face-to-face or phone support.
Family & Child Support: Helping Our Youngest
Help for Parents: Ensuring Kids Don’t Miss Out
UK-Wide Support:
- Healthy Start Vouchers – Get free milk, fruit, vegetables, and infant formula if you’re pregnant or have a child under 4 and receive certain benefits.
- Free School Meals: Check with your child’s school or the BCP Council website if your child is eligible for free school meals.
- Child Benefit & Tax Credits/Universal Credit: Ensure you’re claiming all eligible benefits. Use the EntitledTo or Turn2Us calculators.
BCP-Specific Child Support:
- BCP School Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme – Provides free meals and activities for eligible children during school holidays. Check the council website for sign-up details.
- Local Children’s Centres: Offer a range of support, advice, and activities for families with young children.
Transport & Travel Discounts: Getting Around for Less
Cheaper Travel in BCP: Explore Affordable Options
- More Bus – Check their website for various discount tickets, including multi-day passes, student fares, and family tickets.
- BCP Bike Hire (Beryl Bikes) – An affordable and eco-friendly way to get around with various rental options.
- Active Travel Initiatives: Look for local BCP Council initiatives promoting walking and cycling, which are free and good for your health!
- Railcards: If you travel by train, check eligibility for Railcards (e.g., 16-25, 26-30, Senior, Disabled Persons) for significant discounts.
Quick & Practical Money-Saving Tips: Everyday Habits
- Claim all benefits: Seriously, use Turn2Us or EntitledTo – many people are missing out on thousands!
- Switch to a water meter: If you have more bedrooms than people, this could significantly cut your South West Water bill.
- Check for council tax discounts: Single person discount (25% off), or other reductions for disabilities, students, or low income. Contact BCP Council Tax Support.
- Broadband Social Tariffs: If you receive benefits, you might be eligible for cheaper broadband and phone packages. Check with your provider or Ofcom’s website.
- Budgeting & Tracking: Use a free app like Money Dashboard or Spendee to track your spending and identify areas to save.
- “Heat the Human, Not the Home”: Consider investing in a heated blanket or hot water bottle for personal warmth before turning up the thermostat.
- Repair, Don’t Replace: Look for local “Repair Cafes” or community groups that offer free repairs for household items.
- Review Subscriptions: Cancel any unused streaming services, gym memberships, or apps.
- Meal Planning: Plan your meals for the week to reduce food waste and impulse buys.
- Energy-Saving Habits: Turn off lights, unplug chargers, take shorter showers, wash clothes at 30°C. Small changes add up!
- Free Local Activities: Check BCP Council’s website for free events, parks, libraries, and community groups.
Urgent BCP Help & Mental Wellbeing Support
- The Retreat Bournemouth – A safe, calm, and supportive space for mental health and wellbeing, offering a range of services.
- Dorset Mental Health Helpline – 0800 652 0190 (24/7) – For anyone in Dorset (including BCP) needing urgent mental health support.
- Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7 confidential support for anyone struggling).
- Mind – Comprehensive mental health charity with information and local services.
- Shout 85258 – Text “SHOUT” to 85258 for free, confidential mental health crisis support anytime.
Need More Personalised Help? Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out:
- Citizens Advice BCP – Your primary local point of contact for holistic support. They can often signpost you to very specific local initiatives you might not find elsewhere.
- BCP Council Cost of Living Support – The official council page for all local schemes and up-to-date information.
You’ve got this! Taking the first step is the hardest. Share this guide with someone who might need it.
Disclaimer: Information is accurate as of June 2025 and is subject to change. Please always verify details with the respective organisations. This guide is for informational purposes and not a substitute for professional financial or legal advice.