If you’re in debt or struggling to pay your rent, there’s some useful information in these sections that could help. It covers key benefits you might be entitled to and lets you know who can help if you are having financial difficulties.
This includes a section about services that are available in the area where you live and cover a wide range; from bereavement counselling to benefits advice, advice for the elderly, health advice and legal and financial advice.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
Your local CAB can give you advice with debt or your rights. We can refer you to their free service. If you want us to do this, please give us a ring on 0300 456 2929 and choose option 2.
Visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk or call them on 08444 111 444.
StepChange Debt Charity
StepChange are the UK’s leading debt advice organisation, providing free impartial advice.
Visit www.stepchange.org or call them on 0800 138 1111.
National Debtline
National Debtline is a free, independent and confidential advice service run by the charity Money Advice Trust. Visit them at www.nationaldebtline.co.uk or on 0808 808 4000.
Small grants
Charis Grants provide small grants to help with utilities bills, find out more.
Credit Unions
Credit Unions provide a range of banking and credit services, and can provide you with a savings account if you can’t get one from a high street bank. They are run as not for profit, financial co-operatives, by and for the people who use them. They provide a dividend on savings which is levied from the loans they provide, that way the money remains within the saving community.
We’ve joined up with London Plus Credit Union to provide you with the chance to open up a savings account with them and benefit from their other services.
Why Join London Plus Credit Union
You may be unable to get a bank account, some of you may want an ethical alternative to the high street banks, or you may wish to take out a small loan at a fair rate of interest from a responsible lender (one that ensures you can afford the repayments).
If you choose to join London Plus Credit Union, your money is completely protected as it is with any High Street bank or building society.
What services do they provide?
Savings: Savings accounts, young savers accounts, an ethical charity bond, pre-paid debit card, and more. Find out more
Loans: Responsible lenders who charge fair rates of interest and ensure you can afford your loan. Find out more
Day-to-day money management: Services to help you manage your money, advice if you are experiencing financial problems, sign-posting to others that can help you.
Joining is quick and easy – you can do it online! Sign up with London Plus Credit Union