Start the conversation

This week (3-7th November) is Talk Money Week, and there’s no better time to start talking about finance with your friends and family. Sometimes people might feel uneasy talking about money with loved ones, but research shows that people who talk about money:

  • Make better and less risky financial decisions
  • Have stronger personal relationships
  • Help their children form good money habits for life
  • Feel less stressed or anxious and more in control

For free, impartial and trusted support, head to the government-backed MoneyHelper everyday money service, which is available online, over the telephone and on WhatsApp, with resources available in large print and Braille, if required.

Get in the know

The cost of living is something most of us worry about, and it can be hard to wrap your head around what support there is available.  Luckily you can find up-to-date information and support – both nationally and locally – on the East Sussex County Council’s Cost of Living webpage. You’ll find information and links to everything from help with housing, bills, benefits, transport, food and lots more.

Plan where you can

We can’t always know what life has in store for us, but there are certain life changes where planning your finances will help with the overall stress of the situation.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, heading to university, thinking about your later life plan, or have family problems like illness, divorce or bereavement, the government-backed MoneyHelper Family and Care page offers a great range of information, guides, tools and calculators to help with big money decisions.

If you’re aged over 40 and you’d like further support planning for life’s big changes, read our article about the East Sussex Life Transitions service and how they can help you feel more prepared.

Get a warm home check

If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for a home visit for an assessment and advice on keeping warm, home improvements and emergency temporary heating.

This free service providers telephone advice for anyone struggling to keep warm at home and advice on financial support. Visit the Warm Home Check service to find out more. You can also text WARMHOME to 88440 or call 0800 464 7307.

Get ready for winter

If you or someone you know are over the age of 60, have health or care needs, young children, or rely on medical equipment – you should be eligible for free extra support during a power or water outage.

The Priority Services Register lets utility companies know you may need extra help. This includes things such as priority updates, doorstep checks and bottled water supplies. It’s free to join, so find out more and check if you are eligible by calling 0800 9987103, or visiting the Priority Services Register website.

You can also read our article about ways to stay warm and well in winter.