Help to manage the cost of living

If you need help managing money or maximising your income:

• Welfare assistance scheme - Financial assistance for residents facing an immediate financial crisis. Visit your local Citizens Advice for support – Eligibility is based on assessment of your financial situation

• Citizens Advice Hertfordshire – debt advice, benefit appeals and one‑to‑one budgeting support

• Coming Soon – Family Support Hub – dedicated weekly Money Advice at each Family Hub.

• Money Advice Unit (HCC) – debt, benefits and budgeting advice

If you are struggling to afford food or daily essentials:

• Five Dinners – Get you personalised meal plan & shopping list every week. Sign up and register under Hertfordshire County Council for free – usually £6.99 per month. Offers a range of healthy, affordable recipes
• Community supermarkets – find a wide range of healthy food options and everyday essentials—all priced under £1.
• Free school meals – check if your child is eligible
• Food support – A range of community organisations that can help if you can’t afford the food you need. There is a range of options including:
  • Foodbanks – Free food support for those struggling
  • Food Pantries – Various models, often pay what you can
  • Food Parcels – Food support for those with additional needs or living in rural areas
  • Community Supermarkets – A much reduced cost supermarket

If you are struggling with energy and utility bills:

• Community (Warm/Cool) spaces – places to keep warm or stay cool and connect with others locally 

• Hertfordshire Energy Advice Tool (HEAT) – personalised energy‑saving actions 

• Better Housing Better Health – free, impartial energy and home advice 

• Winter Welfare checks – Age UK handyperson service for older people, delivering light touch interventions to help keep homes warm 

• Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Winter Welfare checks - As part of fire home safety visit, we may also be able to offer practical items to help support residents during periods of excessive heat or colder weather. 

Support for Families:

• Family Centres – Offers a range of service to help families have the best start in life and live healthy and fulfilling lives 

• HAPpy programme – free holiday activities and meals during school holidays 

• Healthy Start – help with food, milk and vitamins for pregnant people and young children 

• Herts Card – discounts on activities and days out 

• School uniform help – speak directly to your child’s school 

• Hertfordshire Baby Bank – baby and children’s items for families experiencing hardship 

If you’re on a low income, you may be able to get help with health costs:

• NHS Low Income Scheme – help with costs for prescriptions, dental care, eye care and travel 

• Prescription prepayment certificates – save money if you need multiple prescriptions or continuing health needs 

• Mental health and wellbeing support – local services and NHS support