Struggling with money can be a stressful and lonely experience. Some people feel guilt or shame, or they worry about what others will think. Remember you’re not alone, and this is a challenging time for many people. Sorting things out might feel overwhelming, but there is support available.

  • Warm Spaces: Warm Spaces are building an online directory of ‘warm banks’ - spaces to find warmth, welcome & help. If you need a warm space to go to, you can search for one on their website. If you wish to offer a warm space you can register with them. Approach your local council to ask If there are any grants available to help you set one up. 

  • Help to reduce loneliness: Loneliness is an emotional response to isolation or lack of meaningful companionship. If you would like to help tackle loneliness, we have a range of free materials that you can use to let people know about the services available to them.
     
  • Great Winter Get Together: Each January the Great Winter Get Together brings together communities to alleviate loneliness, inspired by the late Jo Cox MP and her advocacy on this issue. Starting on so-called ‘Blue Monday’ - 16 January 2023 - we’re encouraging people to create and advertise local places for connection where those who may be feeling lonely can go to form meaningful connections with others.
     
  • Mental wellbeing: Recognising the links between money and our mental health can be an important first step. The mental health charity Mind provides more information on the connection between money problems and mental health, and tips on how to feel more in control of your finances. If money is making you feel low, worried, or lonely, there are things you can do to try and improve your wellbeing day to day:
    • NHS Every Mind Matters gives helpful advice on loneliness and lists communities you can join
       
    • For young people, Young Minds provides helpful advice on how to cope with loneliness and things you can do to stop feeling lonely
       
    • For older people, the Silverline is a free, confidential helpline for information, advice or just a chat. It’s open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Call 0800 470 80 90. 
       
  • Homelessness: If you're homeless, or you're worried about losing your home, there is help available from your council. Visit Shelter for guidance about how to get help from your council and places you can stay if you're in an emergency. 
     
  • Emotional support helplines: If you want to talk to someone about how you're feeling, you can call an emotional support helpline. 
    • Samaritans is a confidential support service for anyone experiencing distress or despair. Call 116 123 for free.
       
    • Papyrus offers a helpline service to people under 35 who are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Call 0800 068 41 41 for free.
       
    • CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) has a helpline for anyone who needs help. Call 0800 58 58 for free.
       
    • The Silverline is aimed at anyone over 55 and provides friendship, conversation and support. Call 0800 4 70 80 90 for free.
       
    • Shout offers confidential 24/7 crisis text support when you need immediate help. Text “SHOUT” to 85258.