Check your entitlements
Make sure you are using all the benefits and support that are available to you by completing a simple benefits check. This could include:
- Universal Credit
- Disability and Carers benefits
- Pension credit
- Help with childcare costs
Click here to complete the check – Benefits calculators – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you want to speak to a member of our team about any additional support you need when it comes to your finances, including help with fuel costs, call our Welfare and Benefits team on 0300 3300 900, selecting options 2, 1, 3 or you can email the team on myadvice@havebury.com.
Support
- Council Tax Reduction – this is available for households on a low income. Apply for Council Tax Reduction – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Healthy Start – If you are 10 weeks or more pregnant, have a child under 4, and receive qualifying benefits. Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
- Prescriptions/dental/glasses – If you receive income support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance you can get a range of free NHS services. You can find out more here. Who can get free prescriptions – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Warm Home Discount – this substantial discount is made direct to your electricity bill for households on a low income. Contact your supplier to find out if they offer this discount, the qualifying criteria, and how you apply
Foodbanks
- Stowmarket and Area Foodbank
- The Trussell Trust Food Bank, Thetford
- The Trussell Trust Food Bank, Haverhill
- Reach Community Projects, Haverhill
- Gatehouse, Bury St Edmunds
- Storehouse Foodbank, Sudbury
If your nearest foodbank is not listed above, visit the Trussell Trust website to find your nearest one.
Save money on everyday costs
Energy (Gas & Electric)
Check with your supplier to make sure you’re getting the best deal. At the moment, with high energy prices, a fixed deal may not suit you but ask your energy supplier for advice.
Take meter readings regularly to see how much you are using and consider a smart meter. You can find out more about smart meters here.
Are you on a prepayment meter? Try and top up regularly all year round.
If you are older, have young children, or have a health condition or disability, ask to go onto the priority services register with your supplier.
If you’re struggling with fuel or utility bills, please get in touch with us at myaccount@havebury.com
You can find further energy saving tips here:
Water
Ask your water meter company about what support they have available with water bills.
A water meter may save you money. You can use this calculator to see if you could save money by getting a water meter installed.
Phone, Internet, and TV packages
Many providers offer discounted rates for households on relevant benefits, you can find out more here.
You can also use a comparison site to check that you are on the best deal available. Review your subscriptions and ensure that you are only paying for what you need.
