LIVE WELL LOCAL COST OF LIVING AND WELLBEING SUPPORT 2026/27
FOREWORD The Live Well Local booklet has been updated for 2026, and I am proud to introduce this valuable resource to residents of Antrim and Newtownabbey. Many households continue to face cost of living pressures as the cost of everyday essentials, such as food and energy, remains high. In response, Live Well Local was developed by the Health and Wellbeing team, as part of the Anti-Poverty Strategy. The initiative provides residents with access to essential information, advice and services, helping them access the support available during a time of ongoing financial pressure. Live Well Local is organised around five key areas: Employment and Skills, Families and Wellbeing, Energy, Food and Financial advice. In the guide you will find contact information for the dedicated community groups and services that are working across our Borough.
COUNCILLOR HENRY CUSHINAN Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey
As Chair of the Anti-Poverty Working Group, I support this Live Well Local booklet which offers practical guidance to help residents stay warm, safe, and supported. From energy-saving advice to employment and skill support to benefit checks and wellbeing services, this resource reflects the joined-up, cross-party commitment we’ve made to tackling poverty and inequality in our Borough. The information here is designed to be clear, useful and accessible to all. I encourage individuals and families to make full use of it – because no one should face hardship alone and help is often closer than you think.
ALDERMAN JULIAN MCGRATH
Chair of the Anti-Poverty Steering Group
CONTENTS Employment and Skills Support.................4 Families and Wellbeing Support...............6 Energy Support...........................................16 Food Support..............................................24 Financial Support.......................................28
All information correct at time of print (August 2026)
EMPLOYMENT AND SKILLS SUPPORT In a constant changing job market securing stable long term employment is harder than ever. What are the challenges? • Lack of qualifications • Lack of training and skills • Lack of experience • Low confidence affecting job performance.
What can you do? • Take online courses, attend workshops, or pursue vocational training to learn new skills needed in the job market • Attend information sessions or join a job club at the Job and Benefits office to access free career advice and support on securing your next role • Visit Council run job fairs, which host a range of local businesses, offering employment opportunities, apprenticeships and support.
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Where can you get help? Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership delivers a range of programmes to help our residents gain the work-ready skills, experience or qualifications needed to move into employment or a better job. For more information E. skills@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk Jobs and Benefits Offices offer information sessions and Job Clubs where you can get support with your CV, applying for jobs, interview skills etc. To find events near you visit www.communities-ni.gov.uk/events CAP Job Club is a weekly meeting that can help you find work, gain new skills and meet likeminded people. For more information visit capuk.org/get-help/cap-job-clubs Your closest CAP Job Club is at Carnmoney Presbyterian Church.
Northern Regional College offers a wide range of courses and qualifications at its Newtownabbey campus, from entry level to professional development. A range of free courses are available, with funding support also available for some learners pursuing further training or qualifications. Explore the opportunities here: www.nrc.ac.uk Network Personnel provides wellbeing, signposting and employability support to those who are interested in finding employment. For more information T. 028 7963 1032 E. info@networkpersonnel.org.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/networkpersonnel
FAMILIES AND WELLBEING SUPPORT Families today face numerous challenges that impact all aspects of family life. What are the challenges? Financial pressure affecting mental health • Lack of money • Worried about paying food and energy bills • Job security • Feeling lonely or isolated. Financial pressure affecting family life • Prioritising family members in difficult times • Strained relationships with partners • Children no longer having the same opportunities.
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What can you do? Finance – If you are worried about your finances, go to the financial section of this booklet where you will find information on how to receive help. Talk and share – In difficult times, talking about your feelings can help you stay in a good mental headspace. Talking with a professional or friends allows you to discuss your problems in a non-judgemental way and helps address issues that may otherwise cause anxiety or depression. Leisure and exercise – These can help to improve your physical and mental health. The Council’s Leisure Centres offer an opportunity for exercise which will help you to look after your wellbeing. We live in a beautiful Borough and there are lots of opportunities to get out into the fresh air and enjoy the many parks, play areas and open spaces. It’s a great way to have a low-cost family day out.
Take 5 In Antrim and Newtownabbey The Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing is small things that you can do every day to improve your mental health. Here are some ways to Take 5 in our Borough: Connect: Join a local community group, spend time with friends and family, reach out to neighbours Be Active: Join a local walking group, check out Council’s Leisure Centres Take Notice: Spend time in some of our parks, check out our nature-based events on our website Keep Learning: Attend a free workshop at your local Library, take a Recovery College course Give: Check out Volunteer Now for local volunteering opportunities. Some activities can tick off all 5 Steps to Wellbeing in one go! For guidance and helpful resources, visit www.publichealth.hscni.net.
Where can you get help?
St Vincent De Paul
Whatever the problem or worry, please talk to someone.
196-200 Antrim Road, Belfast T. 028 9035 1561 E. info@svpni.co.uk
Lifeline T. 0808 808 8000 www.lifelinehelpline.info Relate NI 3 Glengall Street, Belfast, BT12 5AB T. 028 9032 3454 E. office@relateni.org Women’s Aid (ABCLN) The Naomi Centre, 2 Cullybackey Road, Ballymena, BT43 5DF T. 028 2563 2136 E. admin@womensaidabcln.org Parentline NI – Children in Northern Ireland Unit 9, 40 Montgomery Road, Castlereagh Belfast, BT6 9HL T. 0808 802 0400 E. parentline@ci-ni.org.uk
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Men’s Advisory Project (MAP NI) 5th Floor, Glendinning House, 6 Murray Street, Belfast, BT1 6DN T. 028 9024 1929 E. info@mapni.co.uk Samaritans 5-7 Wellesley Avenue, Belfast, BT9 6DG T. 116 123 / 0330 094 5717 E. jo@samaritans.org Social Connection Loneliness does not discriminate and can be experienced by any person of any age group and any background, from youth to new parents to older people and everyone in between. Antrim and Newtownabbey Loneliness Network brings together the statutory, voluntary and community organisations and is dedicated to raising awareness of
loneliness, sharing best practice and learning on ways to address and prevent loneliness and championing initiatives like Chatty Benches and Chatty Cafes to tackle loneliness across the Borough. For more information, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/loneliness-network Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forum A list of community support groups (for over 50s) in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough area is available from Robert McQuiston.
1. Visit elementalsoftware.site/connectnorth 2. Select activity type 3. Insert your postcode 4. Click search Antrim and Newtownabbey Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) This group works in partnership with communities to make them safer and empowers them to tackle crime, fear of crime and anti-social behaviour.
T. 07594 378635 E. antrimandnewtownabbeysf@gmail.com
Mossley Mill, Carnmoney Road North, BT36 5QA T. 028 9446 3113 E. pcsp@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Connect North
South Antrim Community Transport
A holistic Social Prescribing service for the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area which aims to support adults aged 18 years and above and living in or registered with a GP in the NHSCT area who are experiencing social, emotional or practical issues which are affecting their health and wellbeing.
Provides affordable and accessible transport to people living in rural areas of South Antrim.
To find out about activities, services and supports available near you, search the Connect North directory of services by following these steps:
Unit 30, Dennison Industrial Estate, Avondale Drive, Ballyclare, BT39 9EB T. 028 9334 2455 E. info@southantrimcommunitytransport.com
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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Health and Wellbeing Team
Baby Banks
Provides free home safety advice and guidance for families with children under 5 and persons over 65.
Baby Basics - Antrim and Newtownabbey
T. 028 9034 0160 E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Christ Church Hall, 21 Church Road, Ballynure, Ballyclare, BT39 9UF T. 07840 667183 / 07834 544802 E. babybasics@theunitedparish.org.uk
Sure Start Antrim – Action for Children
Baby Bank - Randalstown
With more than 20 services across Northern Ireland, Action for Children is helping children and young people to thrive. 4A Steeple Road, Antrim, BT41 1AF T. 028 9446 7345 www.actionforchildren.org.uk Abbey Sure Start 440 Shore Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 9RU T. 028 9086 0938 E. admin@abbeysurestart.co.uk www.abbeysurestart.com Little Steps Sure Start Antrim Farranshane House, 1 Ballygore Road, Antrim, BT41 2RN T. 028 9446 9644 E. littlesteps@actionforchildren.org.uk
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2nd Randalstown Presbyterian Church, 10 Ahoghill Road, Randalstown, Antrim, BT41 3BL T. 028 9447 2474 Antrim Baby Bank Castle Mall Shopping Centre, Antrim, BT41 4DN T. 07840 319420 E. babybank@homestartantrim.org.uk Home-Start (Antrim District) Stiles Community Centre, 11 Fountain Hill, Antrim, BT41 4AW T. 028 9442 8090 / 07955 999516 E. info@homestartantrim.org.uk
School Uniform Reuse Scheme There are a number of local community school uniform schemes and sales events throughout the Borough. To find your local scheme or to donate uniforms, please call Community Planning Business Support T. 028 9034 0100 or visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/uniform
Education Authority – Free School Meals and Uniform Grants If your child is in full time education and you are in receipt of the following benefits they could be entitled to free school meals and uniform grants from the Education Authority. • Income Support • Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance • Income Related Employment and Support Allowance • Guarantee Element of State Pension Credit. For further information or to apply, contact: T. 028 9047 0233 E. mealsanduniform@eani.org.uk www.eani.org.uk/parents/pupil-applications-and-grants /free-school-meals-uniform-grants
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Leisure and Exercise Leisure and exercise can help to improve your physical and mental health. Beautiful spaces like Antrim Castle Gardens, Hazelbank Park and V36 are great places to enjoy the outdoors. Many of these outdoor spaces also feature play parks. There are over 38 play parks in the Borough, most of which have accessible play equipment. For a full list of leisure centres, play parks, outdoor parks and open spaces, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/parks
Council Leisure Centres • Antrim Forum • Ballyearl Leisure Centre • Crumlin Leisure Centre • Sixmile Leisure Centre • Valley Leisure Centre Each centre has a variety of classes and facilities with value for money inclusive memberships available for all the family. MORE Membership • Family memberships – £47 per month for 2 adults and all children under 18 in the same household including swimming, soft play, fitness classes and much more. • Individual membership – £29 per month for adults aged 18+ and includes a range of activities including fitness suites, fitness classes and swimming.
Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS) The Council’s Physical Activity Referral Scheme offers a free 12-week membership to Council leisure facilities following a GP referral. After completion of the 12-week programme, participants are eligible for a Council ‘MORE Health Membership’ at a reduced cost. For details, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /health-intervention-action-plan NI4KIDS A web platform that focuses on parenting, health, education, family lifestyle, fantastic competitions and events for families. Unit 2, Channel Wharf, Old Channel Road, Belfast, BT3 9DE T. 028 9002 0129 E. info@ni4kids.com / editor@ni4kids.com www.ni4kids.com
For more information including concession memberships contact the MORE Customer Hub on: T. 0300 123 1580 E. more@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/leisure-centres
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Support Funds for Students Hardship funds provide financial help on a discretionary basis to students facing financial difficulties. You can apply if you’re a registered full-time or part-time higher education student or if you are undertaking a postgraduate course at a Northern Ireland higher education institution. For further information, visit: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/support-funds
Assistance for Carers Carers Northern Ireland Provides advice and information for carers and professionals, dealing with a range of issues such as carers benefits, community care and services for carers. T. 028 9043 9843 E. info@carersni.org
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Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) Carer Hub The Northern Trust Carer Hub is a central contact where carers can be signposted to local support or receive other information. T. 028 2766 1210 E. carers.hub@northerntrust.hscni.net Crossroads Care NI A not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting, serving and strengthening carers and those with care needs. 432 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3GY T. 028 9181 4455 E. info@crossroadscare.co.uk www.crossroadscare.co.uk
Local Charity Shops/Repair Café Donating unwanted good quality clothes and household items is a great way to help the environment as well as help others. While you are leaving your items in your chosen charity shop, take a few minutes to have a look around. You’ll be surprised at the great bargains available. Alternatively, you can mend your item. Why not visit the Repair Café and breathe new life into an old favourite. Repair Café Antrim and Newtownabbey This is a volunteer-led repair café for the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey, working together to reduce waste, share skills and help our local communities. E. repaircafean@gmail.com www.facebook.com/RepairCafeAN
ENERGY SUPPORT Energy costs have been changing rapidly, causing concern for many households.
What can you do?
What are the challenges?
You can easily switch energy suppliers to ensure you are getting the best deal available. It’s easier than you think and important to remember the following:
I’m worried about how I can pay my bills • Deciding between what bills to pay
Switching Energy Suppliers
• Keeping appliances/heating off to save money
• Loyalty isn’t always rewarded. You may get cheaper options by changing supplier
• Having to go to shopping centres/libraries to keep warm.
• You can switch if you are a homeowner or renting as long as you pay the bill
I don’t have a working heating system
• Competition is good and suppliers often offer incentives for new customers
• Heating system is old and parts are no longer available • Can’t afford to hire an engineer to fix heating/replace heating system • Having to use solid fuel to heat my home.
• If you decide to move, there will be no interruption to your supply • It’s hassle free – your new supplier takes care of any paperwork • You can switch as often as you like – don’t forget there may be fees for leaving a fixed term contract • Contact your current supplier for contract terms – you could save money even by switching payment method.
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Oil Stamp Scheme If you have oil heating, why not consider saving with the Council’s ‘Oil Stamp Scheme’. You can buy £5 oil stamps from local retailers and Council premises throughout the year to help you budget and spread your heating costs. A list of places where you can buy stamps is available on page 22. Community Bulk Buying Oil Clubs There are a number of community oil buying clubs set up in the Borough. These clubs co-ordinate orders for domestic heating oil in the local area, benefiting everyone involved by negotiating discounts for buying in bulk. The clubs are a great way of helping communities make home heating oil more affordable. Everyone within the club pays the same price per litre regardless of the quantity of oil ordered. How does it work? Once you have registered to join the club, order deadline dates are set throughout the year with members placing their order by the deadline.
The oil club co-ordinator negotiates the best price from a range of suppliers then arranges the supply and delivery date.
Simple Tips for Energy-Saving
Each householder is responsible for paying the oil supplier directly by cash, oil stamps, debit or credit card.
• Use energy-saving light bulbs
The club members have said that it allows them to order smaller quantities more often, helps with budgeting and gives them peace of mind. See page 23 for a list of oil clubs in the Borough.
• Thick curtains will help keep the heat in
Some tips on how to stay warm at home • Keep your living room warm throughout the day if you are at home and heat your bedroom before going to bed – an ideal temperature for your living room is 18-21ºC (64-70ºF) with the rest of the house around 16ºC (61ºF)
• Turn the lights off when you leave the room • Don’t leave appliances on stand-by, switch them off • Fit a jacket on your hot water tank • Turning the heating down by 1°C can reduce your fuel bill • Only boil as much water as you need in your kettle – this will save you time and energy • If possible, fill up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher rather than running them with half loads. For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/energy-efficiency
• Use the thermostat timer for your heating – know how to schedule the time. Most manufacturers will have help online
Where can I get help?
• Set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off before you go to bed. In very cold weather, set the heating to come on earlier rather than turning the thermostat up. This means you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up.
The Consumer Council provides information and advice on switching energy suppliers. They have a handy online tool which allows you to check which energy supplier can save you money.
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The Consumer Council
T. 0800 121 6022 www.consumercouncil.org.uk
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council The Council’s Environmental Health and Wellbeing Service can give you advice on energy efficiency grants, temporary heating solutions, oil stamp saving schemes and oil clubs. T. 028 9034 0160 E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/oilstamps NIHE Energy Advice The One-Stop Shop for energy advice across Northern Ireland, offering information to help with energy efficiency grant signposting, renewable energy advice, energy saving tips, how to switch energy provider, debt assistance, fuel poverty advice signposting and how to benefit from oil-buying savings across NI. T. 0800 111 4455 E. nienergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk
Gas Suppliers Phoenix Energy T. 0345 455 5555 E. info@phoenixenergyni.com www.phoenixenergyni.com Firmus Energy T. 0330 024 9000 E. furtherinfo@firmusenergy.co.uk www.firmusenergy.co.uk For anyone struggling to pay their Firmus Energy bill contact creditcontrol@firmus.co.uk SSE Airtricity T. 0345 601 9093 E. www.airtricitygasni.com/contact-us www.airtricitygasni.com
Electricity Suppliers
Electric Ireland
Power NI
T. 0345 600 5335 / 0800 313 4926 E. customerservice@electricireland.com www.electricireland.com
T. 0800 028 5455 E. home@powerni.co.uk www.powerni.co.uk Struggling to pay your bill with Power NI Contact the Payment & Accounts Resolution Team T. 028 9068 5853 E. dpar@powerni.co.uk Click Energy T. 0800 107 0732 E. chat@clickenergyni.com www.clickenergyni.com
SSE Airtricity T. 0345 600 5335 / 0800 313 4926 E. customerservice@sseairtricity.com www.sseairtricity.com Most suppliers maintain a Vulnerable Customers Register that helps support individuals who rely on medical equipment that requires electricity. Please contact your supplier for more information.
Budget Energy T. 0800 012 1177 E. talktous@budgetenergy.co.uk www.budgetenergy.co.uk
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Oil Stamp Scheme You can purchase oil stamps from any of the outlets below: Antrim • Allen Park, Castle Road, Antrim • Antrim Civic Centre, Stiles Way, Antrim • Antrim Credit Union, Massereene Street, Antrim • Antrim Forum, Lough Road, Antrim
Crumlin • Crumlin Leisure Centre, Main Street, Crumlin • Eurospar, Mill Road, Crumlin • Russell’s, Main Street, Crumlin Newtownabbey • Ballyearl Leisure Centre, Doagh Road, Newtownabbey • Eurospar, The Diamond, Rathcoole
• Centra, Belfast Road, Antrim
• Monkstown Community Forum, Monkstown Village Centre, Monkstown
• Centra, Oriel Road, Antrim
• Mossley Mill, Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey
• Muckamore Credit Union
• Spar, Doagh Road, Abbots Cross, Newtownabbey
• Spar, Parkhall Shopping Centre, Antrim • Spar, Greystone Shopping Centre, Antrim
• Spar, Glenwell Filling Station, Antrim Road, Glengormley
• The Old Courthouse, Market Square, Antrim
• Spar, Kings Crescent, Newtownabbey
• Vivo, High Street, Antrim
• Spar, Manse Road, Newtownabbey
Ballyclare • Ollies, Ollardale Park, Ballyclare • Sixmile Leisure Centre, Ballynure Road, Ballyclare • Spar, Templepatrick Road, Ballyclare • The Paper Shop, The Square, Ballyclare
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• Spar, Shore Road, Whiteabbey • Valley Leisure Centre, Church Road, Newtownabbey
Randalstown
Community Bulk Buying Oil Clubs
• Kearney’s, Main Street, Randalstown • Kearney’s, Station Road, Randalstown
The oil clubs currently running within the Antrim and Newtownabbey area:
• Credit Union, New Street, Randalstown
Duneane Oil Club
• Spar, New Street, Randalstown Templepatrick
T. 07834 546068 E. duneaneoilclub@outlook.com
• Eurospar, Antrim Road, Templepatrick
Monkstown Oil Club
Toomebridge
T. 07972 253335 E. villagecentre@btinternet.com
• Mace, Main Street, Toomebridge • Mace, Roguery Road, Toomebridge • Tidal, Toome House, Main Street, Toomebridge
Ollardale Oil Club T. 07763 197216 Crumlin Oil Club T. 07885 913479 E. oilclub@cig-net.org
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FOOD SUPPORT Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is important for your physical and mental health and wellbeing. What are the challenges?
Eat Well • A balanced diet will help keep you warm and healthy throughout the winter • Try to make one hot meal a day for you and your family. Soups and stews are very nutritious and aren’t expensive
I don’t have enough food for the family
• Eat the most nutritious diet you can afford
• Choosing between food and fuel
• Batch cooking by using a slow cooker or using more efficient devices such air fryers and microwave ovens will help keep your cooking costs to a minimum.
• Having to miss meals • Choosing cheaper, less nutritious food • Eating foods past the use-by date.
Simple tips
What can you do?
• Eating regular meals will help keep your energy levels up
Food Budgeting • Regularly check what food you have before you go shopping. It will help you to only buy the items you need • Cook everything from scratch if you can. It will help reduce food waste and save money • When food shopping, use loyalty schemes and purchase own-brand foods. Supermarkets will have discount or special offer isles where you can pick up a bargain.
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• Hot meals and drinks will help keep you warm • Plan your meals and keep your diet as varied as possible • Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables to boost your immune system • Stock up on tinned and frozen foods, so you don’t have to go out when it’s very cold or icy • Drink more milk and eat more dairy products as these boost your immune system and help prevent colds.
Where can you get help? Financial Support – If you are struggling to pay food bills go to the financial section of this booklet where you will find information on how to receive help. Consumer Council – For useful tips and advice on food budgeting and food wastage.
Food Programme Free one day course covering healthy eating, food, practical cooking and reducing food waste. antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/the-food-programme Healthy Heroes
www.consumercouncil.org.uk/costofliving/food
A free food programme for children aged 7-11 to encourage healthy eating and practical food skills.
Muddy Boots
antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/healthy-hero-resources
This is a fun online ‘grow your own’ programme that anyone can try. antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/muddyboots Eat Clever This healthy eating programme provides information and advice on basic nutrition, planning balanced meals and food safety. antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/eatclever
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Community Fridge A Community Fridge or Larder is a shared space that combines the efforts of local people and businesses towards reducing food waste. Community Fridges are not means-tested. Anyone can access these spaces and contribute towards the positive impacts they make on the local area. Most fridges are run by volunteers and will open on certain days to share safe food items that have been collected from shops, from local allotments and through redistribution organisations. To find your nearest Community Fridge or Larder, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /community-fridge-network Food Banks There are a number of food banks throughout the Borough. To access the food bank, contact one of the agencies on the next page who will refer you for food bank vouchers. Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey T. 028 9590 6505
Housing Executive (For Housing Executive tenants only) T. 03448 920 900
Additional Support Antrim Foodbank Unit 6, Antrim Enterprise Agency, Rathenraw Industrial Estate, Greystone Road, Antrim, BT41 1JZ T. 028 9454 8555 E. info@antrim.foodbank.org.uk www.antrim.foodbank.org.uk Newtownabbey Foodbank 258 Carnmoney Road, Newtownabbey BT36 6JZ T. 07581 179604 E. info@newtownabbey.foodbank.org.uk www.newtownabbey.foodbank.org.uk
FINANCIAL SUPPORT Don’t let financial concerns build up. Support is available. This section will give you advice on where to get that help. What are the challenges?
• Benefit payment is delayed • Waiting for a benefit decision. I am struggling with debt • Rent or benefit arrears • Gas or electricity arrears
My money does not stretch far enough
• Payday loans
• Deciding between food and fuel
• Owe money to friends or family.
• Low income or zero hours contracts • Statutory sick pay too low to cover costs
What can you do?
• Not sure if you are eligible for support
Maximise your Income
• Change of life circumstances e.g. new baby, bereavement, illness.
If you feel you are struggling financially, the Community Advice Centre provides free and confidential advice.
I suddenly have no money • Lost money or unexpected expense
They can carry out a benefit check to ensure you are receiving all the money you are entitled to, especially if your circumstances have recently changed.
• Disaster - flood or fire
Debt Advice
• Relationship breakdown
Debt can happen to anyone. Free advice and support can help you find ways to manage your debt and reduce how much you pay each month.
• Lost job or reduced hours
• Money has stopped. I am waiting on a benefit decision • Made a new benefit claim
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Free, confidential debt advice and personal support is
available from CAP Job Club. These programmes are designed to equip people with the skills and confidence to take control of their finances, build healthy money habits, move towards employment, and plan positively for the future. See Page 4 for contact details. Christians Against Poverty money coaching courses – only for those living within the BT36 and BT37. Benefit Advice If you have made a new claim for benefit and are in financial hardship while you wait for your first payment, you may be entitled to an advanced payment for necessities like rent or food. Challenge a Decision You can challenge a benefit decision if your benefit has been stopped, sanctioned, reduced, refused or if you have been overpaid. Remember that most benefit decisions need to be challenged within one month. Discretionary Support You may be able to get help towards short-term living expenses, repairing and replacing basic household items, travel expenses and rent. Support for Children The increased cost of living has a huge effect on families,
particularly children. Increased costs can prevent some children from having the same opportunities as others, which can have a physical and mental impact on children. Families and Wellbeing Support Your Local Library: Free, Welcoming and Here for Everyone With eight libraries across the Antrim and Newtownabbey area, Libraries NI offers free services, activities and welcoming spaces for people of all ages. Borrow books, enjoy free Wi-Fi and computer access, discover eBooks and eAudiobooks or take part in everything from children’s activities and reading groups to creative events, digital support and opportunities to learn something new. Your local library is the perfect place to read, study, meet people or simply spend some time, all for free! With libraries in Antrim, Ballyclare, Cloughfern, Crumlin, Glengormley, Greystone, Randalstown and Rathcoole, you are never far from a local library so call in and discover what’s happening or visit librariesni.org.uk to find out more.
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Where can you get help? Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey provides free, independent and quality advice to local people. The advisors will be able to help you with welfare benefits, debt and finance, housing, employment rights, consumer advice, health and relationships, immigration, education, and tax. Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey (CAAN) T. 028 9590 6505 E. advice@advicean.com Dunanney Centre, Rathmullan Drive, Newtownabbey, BT37 9DQ Farranshane House, 1 Ballygore Road, Antrim, BT41 2RN Office opening hours (both main offices): Mon – 9am - 4pm Tues – 9am - 7pm (4pm - 7pm appointments only) Wed – 9am - 1pm Thurs – 9am - 4pm Fri – 9am - 1pm Lunch is from 1pm - 1.30pm
NI Direct NI Direct is a central government webpage that hosts lots of useful information for individuals and households on the cost of living crisis. www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/cost-living The website can provide advice on the following:
Housing Issues – help and advice with payment arrears of rates, mortgages or rent. Help for Older People – lone pensioner allowance, free bus and train travel and other benefits. Help with Health Costs – help with treatment, health service and travel costs.
Help with Your Income – help with cost of living payments, benefits, redundancy or employment support.
Turn 2 Us
Discretionary Support – help towards short-term living expenses in your home, travel expenses and rent.
www.turn2us.org.uk
Benefit Advance – support if you need to make a claim or you are waiting for your first claim. Help with Energy Costs – cold winter payments, help with household energy costs. Tax Free Child Care – if you work and your children are under 12, you might be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare. This can help pay for approved childcare.
A national charity providing practical help to people who are struggling financially. For more information, visit
Use a Bill Prioritiser This tool will help you prioritise your bills, will provide advice specific to your needs and will help you find ways to manage your situation. For more information visit www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/money-troubles /cost-of-living/bill-prioritiser
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Booklet produced by the Environmental Health and Wellbeing team. This booklet is available upon request in a range of alternative formats. Alternative formats may include Easy Read, Braille, large print, audio formats (CD, mp3 or DAISY) or minority languages to meet the needs of those for whom English is not their first language.
ANTRIM CIVIC CENTRE 50 Stiles Way, Antrim BT41 2UB MOSSLEY MILL Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey BT36 5QA T. 0300 123 4568 antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk