Welcome,
We’re well into the New Year now, and lots of us will be looking forward to Spring, however there's still a cold breeze in the air and many of us may still need support with the cost of living.
This newsletter includes information on:
- Tax credits ending
- Support with childcare
- Cost of Living Payments
- Household Support Fund
- Fire safety at home
There are lots of spaces across Doncaster where you can speak to somebody- whether that be about managing debt, heating your home or just having a chat and a cup of tea, you can find them through our cost of living support page.
 Household Support Fund: Applications are STILL open!
The Household Support Fund provides support for those who may be affected by the rise in cost of living. This includes: support with food for children during school holidays, and help towards energy bills for working age adults.
To be eligible you must be receiving one of the following:
- Housing benefits
- Local Council Tax reduction
- Universal Credit which includes the housing element
- Means-tested free school meals.
Applications are open until March 1 2024 at 5PM when the fund closes, and no further applications can be accepted after the closing date.
Citizen Advice Energy Project
Citizens Advice are working to support individuals and families through the British Gas Trust Energy Project.
Here’s how they can help support you:
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Benefit Checks: Uncover hidden financial support.
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Income Maximisation: Make your income work harder for you.
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Energy Trust Funds: Easy access to vital assistance.
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Priority Services: Ensure your energy needs are met.
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Arrears Guidance: Manage energy debt with confidence.
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Boost Income: Explore local and national support options.
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Charitable Aid: We’re here to lend a helping hand.
If you are looking for help or advice from the British Gas Energy Project, please contact on (01302) 243057 or visit the Citizen's Advice website referral form.
Tax credits are ending, what's next?
Are you claiming legacy benefits like JSA or working Tax Credit?
Citizens Advice Doncaster are hosting sessions at Helping Hands Community Centre, New Edlington, DN12 1PL so you can find out how the incoming changes to old style benefits will impact you:
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February 28: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
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March 13: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
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March 27: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
You can find out more about the changes to old style benefits through the Understanding Universal Credit website.
Cost of Living Payment
The government is providing help for households to combat the rising cost of living. Millions of people on means-tested benefits will receive a third of three Cost of Living Payments worth up to £900 for this financial year 2023/2024.
The payment of £299 will be paid automatically between 6 and 22 February, meaning those eligible do not need to apply or contact DWP or HMRC.
Visit the government's website for information of whether you qualify.
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