These are hard times, but help is available..

Many people’s lives have been dramatically effected by the current pandemic. Here is some useful information from Exeter City Council, for those seeking help

loss of employment or reduction in income –

DWP would be the first stop to look at Universal Credit or other applicable benefits. In relation to energy costs, it is always advisable to speak to your supplier, however Exeter Community Energy can advise on this and also have access to grants for things like white goods, boiler servicing etc. Details about their services and how to get in touch with them are at https://www.ecoe.org.uk/

Council Tax and other bills owed to the Council – 

Customers can go online for advice and services or call us on 01392 277888. We can look at affordable arrangements, Council Tax Support, Housing Benefits and Discretionary Housing Payments.

We also have the Covid-19 Wellbeing hotline and Community Wellbeing fund, where we can refer to a range of different services, link up customers with community groups and consider grants, food vouchers etc. for those in hardship resulting from Covid-19. Most customers contact us online via the link at https://exeter.gov.uk/clean-safe-city/community-safety/coronavirus/exeter-community-wellbeing/ but you can also call on 01392 265000, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Support services, community groups, charities etc. can also refer as a third party via these routes, but consent will be needed before we can proceed.