The cost of living is rising but there is help available. Help is not just for people who are out of work, it is also there for those who are in work and on a low income and some of the support is available to all, without being means tested.
The cost of living crisis affects everyone, especially those working but just getting by. If you think this may apply to you, try using the Fife Benefit checker – fife.entitledto.co.uk/home/start to see if there is any support available to you.
If you don’t meet the criteria for the Benefit Checker, there is other help available. Some of the support on offer anyone can get, such as:
- free bus travel for under 22s – Support with transport costs | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
- Café Inc lunch clubs and community fridges/pantries – Support with food | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
- free period products – Supporting your health | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
- money advice – Increase your income | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
- mortgage support – Support with your home | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
- advice on fuel and energy costs – Support with heating & utility costs | Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
Help is given confidentially and no one should feel embarrassed to ask for advice or support. For more advice on coping with the rising cost of living, go to Cost of Living Support (fife.scot)
School Meal Support
If you are on a low income, help is available with lunches, milk and a clothing grant (£120).
All P1-5 children automatically receive free school lunches but if your child is in P6 or 7, you need to register if you are eligible. It is also worth registering if your child is in P1-5 and you are eligible as you will receive the clothing grant and free milk. Click here to find out if you are eligible and apply.
The Best Start Grant supports families on a low income. You can get a payment when your child is a baby, again when they are nursery age and again when they start school. But you need to apply each time – click here to find out more.
Click Here to access a list of benefits you may be entitled to if you are on a low income.
Click Here for more information about support with food.
Cosy Kingdom offer free and impartial energy and debt advice service available to all tenants and homeowners across Fife: 01592 807930 (Mon-Fri 10-3), or email info@cosykingdom.org.uk
Equal Opportunities for Every Child
Any parent or carer can come to Mrs Balsillie at any time for advice and support in regards to the cost of living crisis or the cost of the school day. As a school we will ask for donations of money as rarely as possible and no child will ever miss out because they can’t meet the cost of a donation. Families with 3 or more children attending Guardbridge will only be asked to donate for two at the most. Funding can be accessed for sizable costs such as residential trips, and school will support families who wish to access this support. If any parent or carer is concerned regarding a request from school, and feels under pressure in any way, we will support the family to ensure all pupils have equal opportunities in their school career.
