Many people are finding planning our personal finances difficult at this challenging in time. Thankfully, there are lots of resources out there offering advice and support. Below are listed a range of sources and organisations that are available to turn to for assistance if you need it.
If you are entitled to claim support, please make sure you do as it is there to help.
You can also find at the bottom of the page some guidance and a budget template spreadsheet which you can use.
Budget planning advice and support
https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/tools/budget-planner
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/Budget-planning/
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/universal-credit/on-universal-credit/budgeting-advance/
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/if-you-cant-pay-your-bills-because-of-coronavirus/
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/budgeting/budgeting/work-out-your-budget/
The Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) is encouraging people to pay extra attention to their financial wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic, and to consider what protective steps they can take now to avoid money worries later on.
MaPS guidance to everyone, no matter their situation, is that they should review their finances now, to help them avoid running into difficulty down the track.
Feel like you need a refresher on financial management?
Click here to find some great resources to help you figure out what's best for you.
Charity Support
Step Change - https://www.stepchange.org/
Christians Against Poverty - https://capuk.org/
Turn2Us - Fighting UK Poverty
The helpline is available on 0808 802 2000.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 8am to 6:30pm / Sat: 9am to 1pm
Turn2us is a national charity that provides practical information and support to people facing financial crisis. Our website turn2us.org.uk and helpline support includes:
- Benefits Calculator so that people can work out what they are eligible for (coronavirus updated)
- Grants Search – containing over 1,700 charitable grants (searchable by profession, health condition, location and age)
- Information on benefits and grants (including additional rights due to coronavirus)
Council Support
North Devon Council has launched a financial support page for those whose income has been affected by the outbreak.