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Benefits and finances

Information for Torbay residents who are struggling financially.

If you are struggling with your finances you don’t need to struggle alone.

Financial help

Household Support Fund

This will give financial support to those on a low income. It can help with paying for food and energy bills.

Welfare Support Scheme

It helps people meet an essential need. It can also help people get set up in their homes or help them stay independent in their own homes.

There are also other government benefits and financial support to help with living costs.

Pension Credit

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.

Council Tax Discretionary Reductions

A very limited fund to give extra help to those having problems paying their council tax.

Discretionary Housing Payments

Extra help with housing costs for people who receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit for housing costs and with Council Tax (normally for people who get Council Tax Support)

Social tariffs for broadband and phone services

We know people are worried about the cost of their broadband and phone services. A range of Internet Service Providers (IPSs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are delivering low-cost packages, known as social tariffs, for those on low incomes. 

Social tariffs are available for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits, with some providers offering deals from as low as £15 a month.

Find out more about social tariffs

Other useful resources

Debt and loans

Find out where to turn if you’re in debt and how to avoid loan sharks. The Department of Work and Pensions offer Budgeting Loans.

You might also be able to get other benefits and financial support to help with your living costs.

Check what benefits and financial support you can get

Talk Learn Do digital (TLD)

TLD is the Money and Pensions Service’s flagship free financial capability programme to encourage the parents and carers of 3–11-year-olds to talk to their children about money.

Torbay Community Helpline

Call 01803 446022 for advice, information and a whole range of support.

MoneyHelper

Has guidance and advice on managing your money.

MoneySavingExpert.com

Lots of advice on how to cut costs and save money.

Turn2us

A national charity that helps people in financial need. They can help you access benefits and grants and get other financial help.

Childcare costs

Get help with your childcare costs.

Scams

If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Fraudsters prey on people who are looking to save money. Find out how to avoid falling victim to scams.

Contact Benefits