Cotswold District Council Urges Residents to Access Cost-of-Living Support Resources

Following the Government’s recent Autumn Budget announcement, Cotswold District Council is reminding residents and businesses across the district of the range of support available to help ease the pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

The latest budget brought forward some positive changes, including an increase in the national minimum wage, a 4.1% rise in the State Pension, and a 1.7% boost to benefits. However, it also introduced a shift in the winter fuel allowance, which will now be means-tested rather than universal.

Recognising the challenges these changes may pose, the Council is committed to ensuring that everyone in the community is aware of the support options available.

The Council offers a wide range of resources to help residents meet both immediate needs and plan for long-term resilience. These resources include financial support, social services, and mental health resources aimed at helping individuals and families manage through challenging times.

Each year, across Great Britain, there are a huge amount of unclaimed income related benefits which people are missing out on. Maximising income through the take up of benefits is essential to support those on low incomes.

Unfortunately, around a third of eligible pensioners are not currently claiming Pension Credit—often because they are unaware they qualify or are uncertain of the benefits. Pensioners are being encouraged to check eligibility through the Pension Credit calculator on the Council’s website.

Pension Credit is offered to eligible individuals at state pension age and provides additional financial assistance for living costs and access to further support services. Eligible individuals can also apply for the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment, a one-off automatic top-up to the Winter Fuel Payment.    

Additionally, Council Tax Support is available to individuals on low incomes or receiving certain benefits, with a Council Tax Hardship Fund offered to those in exceptional circumstances.

Councillor Joe Harris, leader of Cotswold District Council, said: "With the government’s decision to abolish the winter fuel allowance and the ongoing cost of living crisis, we understand that many of our residents are worried about getting by this winter. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive support package to offer both practical help and reassurance to our community."

Residents should visit the Cost-of-Living page on the Council’s website, where information on eligibility criteria and the application process for various support schemes is readily available.

For more details on the support available, please visit the Cotswold District Council website or call 01285 623035.

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