Financial help is available
Published: 30 November 2020
Are you facing a financial crisis?
Many families may be struggling financially as we come out of lockdown. But be assured there is financial support available to those that need it most. There are several types of support available.
What funding has been provided?
Funding has been provided through the Government so that Surrey County Council can :-
- continue to support those children in the county eligible for Free School Meals.
- provide a grant for care leavers, and direct support to families of younger children eligible for the pupil premium.
Surrey Crisis Fund
A further £80k of funding has now been provided through the Government so that the Surrey Crisis Fund can help Surrey residents in emergency need. Depending on your circumstances which will be considered when you apply you could be eligible for some of the following support:
- food and toiletries
- essential white goods and furniture; please note we do not provide replacement items
- certain utilities
- emergency travel costs (hospital appointments, job interviews, etc)
We encourage you to get in touch and share this message with any families you feel may be eligible.
Breathing Space
The new Government scheme "Breathing Space" gives you temporary protection from most types of debt collection, while you work with a debt adviser to take action to get on top of your finances. You can be protected from creditors for 60 days, with most interest and penalty charges frozen and enforcement action halted. Certain types of payments including ongoing housing costs, utility bills and taxes will still need to be paid during this time.
Many people in a mental health crisis also struggle with their finances, so anyone who is getting mental health crisis treatment can get additional support. They can get a temporary relief for the duration of their crisis treatment plus an additional 30 days.
Find out more about the support available 'Breathing Space' debt support - Surrey County Council
Find out more about financial support available in Surrey
To find out more about all of these options and others provided by District and Borough councils please visit the Surrey County Council COVID I need financial help web pages or call the Community Helpline on 0300 200 1008 Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm SMS 0786 0053 465 for Deaf and hearing impaired residents only (Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm).
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