The one-stop hub includes information on support from the council, government and local partners to help meet the costs of essentials including food, heating, childcare, and council tax. It also includes advice to tackle debt and information from local charities aimed at protecting your physical and mental wellbeing.
We're encouraging anyone struggling financially to seek help before they are in a crisis, by visiting our RBWM Together Here to Help hub, picking up an updated ‘Here to Help’ booklet in your local library or contacting Citizens Advice East Berkshire on 0808 278 7914 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
Residents can also visit Citizens Advice at one of their drop-in sessions held from 10am to 12pm on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4 Marlow Road, Maidenhead or contact the council by phone on 01628 683800.
Help is also available from our dedicated Financial Inclusion team, who can offer an appointment in person or over the phone to discuss how residents can make the most of their money and identify additional sources of income to meet the cost of living. You can contact the team by emailing financial.inclusion@rbwm.gov.uk.
Since October, we've have been delivering the latest round of the government’s Household Support Fund, provided by the Department of Work and Pensions.
Working with a wide range of voluntary groups and community organisations across the borough, this funding will be used until the end of March to provide those most in need with a one-off payment of £150 and access to free school meal vouchers for those who need help to feed their children during the school holidays, including at Christmas.
As part of the council’s commitment to ensure that young people have a good start in life and opportunities through to adulthood - support will automatically be made available to care leavers in the borough.
Information on the partners delivering the fund and how to contact them can be found on our website.
Councillor Catherine del Campo, Cabinet member for adults, health and housing services, said: “We’re committed to doing everything we can to help residents who are facing financial hardship this winter, including working with borough partners to support individuals and families to meet the costs of essentials and raising awareness of the support that can help to protect their physical and mental health during difficult times.
“If you’re struggling financially and facing difficult decisions around food, rent, heating or other essentials, please reach out before you reach crisis point.
“These are challenging times for many residents and, in addition to financial support, we offer services that can help you to reduce the impact of debt, plan for the future and develop positive money habits.”
