Tips for dealing with debt and bills

• Mortgages:If keeping up with your bills and food on the table may be a challenge, speak to your bank. Read more

• Loans and credit cards: If you're struggling with debt you can get FREE debt advice for the charity StepChange. 
  
  
• Overdrafts: Some banks will offer tailored support if you're struggling to get out of your overdraft.
  
  
• Rent to own, buy now, pay later & pawnbroker: Lenders in these three areas must also give you tailored support if you have payment difficulties.
  

Help for renters – incl protection from eviction

Many rules have been changed to support those struggling to pay rent due to the coronavirus outbreak. Speak to your landlord as soon as possible to let them know your situation and work out a repayment plan. 

It's also worth checking whether you're receiving all the financial help with housing you're entitled to, which could come from benefits such as universal credit. 

Read more here

Household bill help

• Energy bills: suppliers are offering some help to those who may struggle to pay bills– both prepay and credit meter customers. 
  
  
• Energy Grants: Some suppliers offer grants towards energy bills including:
• • npower Energy Fund
  • Scottish Power Hardship Fund
  • Ovo Debt and energy assistance
  • E.on Energy Fund
  • EDF Energy Customer Support Fund
  • Bulb Energy Fund
  • British Gas
• Council Tax: Some councils have help in place for council tax bills
• Struggling with water bills? Firms will help
• Life insurance should cover coronavirus
• Broadband: all providers say that anyone who's struggling should contact them as soon as possible to discuss their options. 

Help with food costs and baby essentials

• Anyone who qualifies for Universal Free School Meals can register for food vouchers up to the value of £15. Check with your school office for details on how to register. 
• The Scottish Government offers a Best Start Grant for parents and carers. Find out more here
• Foodbanks: If you cannot afford food, please get in touch with your local foodbank. The Trussell Trust website can help you find one in your local area.  
• Baby banks can provide baby essentials including nappies: Little Village HQ has more than 100 baby banks across the UK. Find out where your nearest one is, by visiting their website.