We know that times are tough right now and household budgets are being squeezed like never before. If you are struggling, whatever the situation, our free money guidance support can help you navigate a range of money difficulties and turn things around.
We’ve gathered our most useful tools and guides to help you manage your expenses, rent, energy bills, and debt.
If you would like to book a money guidance appointment with our friendly team, please complete the form below.
Check your entitlements
You could be eligible for benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Carers Allowance (eligibility depends on individual circumstances).
Our Welfare Benefits Advisory Service is made up of experts who can help you understand what you may be entitled to and how to claim. Last year alone, they helped our residents access an extra £1m in benefits.
You can also use our free and completely anonymous benefit calculator to see what you qualify for. It is simple and only takes a few minutes.
For extra support
- Claiming benefits or having a low income could open doors to other financial assistance, such as Council Tax Reduction and discounts for energy and transport costs.
- Explore options like the Healthy Start Scheme, which helps pregnant women on benefits or families with young children to buy food such as milk or fruit.
- Help with health-related costs for prescriptions, dental or glasses, if you have a low income.
- Find out about charitable grants, which are assessed on your situation.
Review your budget
Taking control of your finances starts with a budget, and with rising prices and bills it’s well worth taking a fresh look at your outgoings.
Use a free budget planner to go through everything you spend, including your regular bills, all expenses, and one-off payments, such as gifts, school uniform and insurance. Keep a daily record - small amounts quickly add up.
Help to save money on household costs
We have an abundance of tips to help you manage the cost of running your home, including getting better deals on your utilities, such as energy, water and your phone, TV and internet packages.
You can also find out about help with food costs and accessing additional support if you are a resident who is vulnerable.
Get debt advice
If you are struggling with debt and have bills or borrowing that you cannot afford to pay on time, it is important to remember that help is always at hand. Free independent debt advice is available and with the support of a debt advisor, they can help you get some breathing space and work out the best way forward with you.
Always use a free and independent financially regulated service. Our partners, StepChange, provide free expert debt advice and can recommend tailored solutions suited to your situation.
Trouble paying your rent?
If you are worried about paying your rent, please let us know as soon as possible. We have specialist teams on hand who can help.
Avoid loan sharks
Loan sharks take advantage of people struggling to make ends meet and feel they have nowhere else to turn. If you are offered money with little paperwork but high charges, always say no and get free help from a debt advice charity.
If you are a victim of a loan shark, you can get help day or night.
Explore further help from Clarion Futures
In addition to our money guidance services, we have a wide range of free support and advice you can turn to whenever you need it, from jobs and training to wellbeing to digital skills.
Jobs and training
Tailored support to help overcome any barriers to employment you may be facing. This includes, helping with CVs, job searched, training and apprenticeships, and providing access to grants to help with retraining, returning to work, or setting up your own business.
Digital skills
We can help with digital skills and provide equipment, including laptops, tablets and data, so you can get online safely and confidently.
Wellbeing
Money worries can have an impact on your mental health and wellbeing, leading to stress, anxiety, and loss of sleep. Things may sometimes feel overwhelming; if you’re struggling, we’re here to help.
Get in touch
To apply for help and assistance from Clarion Futures for any of these areas, please complete the Clarion Futures Referral Form.