Our help guide for the cost of living crisis

With the rising cost of living many are struggling to make ends meet. At The Mall we know this will affect many of our guests and want to highlight things that may help

We know this will affect many of our shoppers and want to highlight things that may help.

£150 council tax rebate

If you live in council tax bands A to D you are entitled to a £150 tax rebate to help pay for energy costs . If you pay by direct debit, this will be paid to your bank automatically. If you don’t then the Council will get in touch with you.

Benefits calculator

Check to see if you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to by using a this benefit calculator. You can also check if you can get a council reduction or discount.

Help from local council or charities

Your local council may be able to give you vouchers or a prepaid card to help pay for essentials like food or fuel. For Blackburn please visit here.

Check you’re being paid the right wage

On 1st April the minimum wage was increased. Check that you are being paid the correct amount.

23+ - £9.50

21 – 22 - £9.18

18 – 20 - £6.83

Under 18 - £4.81

Apprentice - £4.81

If you are not being paid minimum wage, you should speak to your employer first. If that doesn’t work or you don’t feel comfortable speak to Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7847.

Help with school costs

You may also be entitled to free school meals which you can apply for on the Government website.

Agreeing a payment plan with your energy supplier

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills you should speak to your energy provider and ask to be put on a payment plan.

You’ll pay fixed amounts over a set period of time so you can pay what you can afford.

Grants to help energy debts

If you are in debt with your energy supplier, you might be able to get a grant to help pay off the debts. Even if your supplier doesn’t offer grants, you may be able to get one from the British Gas Energy Trust.

Local Foodbank

If you can’t afford food, you can arrange an assessment to find out whether you qualify for a food voucher. You can get in touch with Blackburn Foodbank Blackburn Foodbank who will be able to assess your situation and arrange food parcels where appropriate.

Citizens Advice

If you are struggling and need more assistance, then do contact your local Citizens Advice. For Blackburn you can contact them on 0800 240 4420.