Cost of Living Hub

This hub is designed to provide some practical steps anyone can take in order to improve their financial resilience. Whether you are struggling now or just want to be better with your money, you can follow these steps to improve your financial position starting today.

Budgeting

Income maximisation

Claim what's yours

Reducing your spending

Health and Wellbeing

Advicelink Cymru

Families across Wales are feeling the strain on their household budgets due to the rising cost of living, making that extra bit of help more important than ever.

Many people are unaware they may be entitled to benefits that could offer them the support they need.

If you are unsure about what benefits you can claim, contact the Advicelink Cymru free helpline:

0808 250 5700

Advicelink Cymru

Financial Wellbeing Resources on iDev

The cost of living crisis is affecting us all, with the increase in energy bills and other essential living costs this year, most people are going to feel the effect on their finances. You can find resources that can support you during these difficult times on iDev. As part of this package you can also watch a recorded version of the Cost of Living webinar hosted through the Learning Café with Better with Money. This session covers: Planning your budget, tips to reduce costs, maximising income, managing debt, the help available and much more.

Financial Wellbeing Resources on iDev

Where to get help in the Vale

As the cost of energy, fuel and household bills rises, you may find it harder to pay your bills. There are a number of ways you can get help in the Vale of Glamorgan:

Paying bills

Citizens Advice Cardiff and Vale

Citizens Advice is an independent charity that provides free, confidential and impartial information and advice to the residents of the City and County of Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. They offer help with debt, benefits, housing and more.

Citizens Advice Cardiff and Vale

Putting food on the table

Penarth Food Pod

Anyone can visit the Food Pod in Penarth to get tinned and perishable goods, toiletries and hygiene products on a pay-as you-can basis.

The Food Pod operates from a converted shipping container in the St Luke’s estate. It is open on Mondays and Fridays from 2pm to 4pm, and Wednesdays from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.

Information on Penarth Food Pod

Food banks

There are also a number of food banks in the Vale of Glamorgan. If you're struggling to pay for food, find out how to get help from a food bank.

Period Dignity

The Vale of Glamorgan Council has been supporting families to ensure period dignity for women and girls from low income households.

Ongoing support has been provided and products have been available via schools, the 15plus team, youth wellbeing service and various housing partners.

Partnerships with third sector organisations, including food banks, community hubs, family centres etc. have been put into place to ensure access to period products, free of charge and accessible in the most practical and dignified way possible.