Get emergency foodHelp through Hardship helpline
If you’re worried about money, you’re not alone. Our helpline offers free, confidential advice and emergency support.
We know it’s a tough time for many people. If you’re worried about money and feel overwhelmed, we’re here to help. Our friendly advisers will ask some questions to understand your situation and offer you personalised advice.
We might be able to give you information on how to claim extra benefits, and let you know about other grants and support you can apply for. And if you can't afford to pay for essentials, we’ll try to get you emergency support.
What is the Help through Hardship helpline?
The Help through Hardship helpline is a free phone service delivered in partnership with Citizens Advice. Our advisers have already helped thousands of people who are worried about money and are here to help you access the support you need.
What we can do to help:
There’s lots of different ways to get financial support. We want to make sure you know about everything you could apply for. Our advisers will be able to give you advice based on your circumstances. When you call us, here are some of the things we can do:
- Check you’re getting all the benefits you’re eligible for
- Advise on any extra benefits you might be able to get
- Identify any grants you might be able to apply for
- Refer you for support and information to help you take care of your mental wellbeing
- Give advice on energy efficiency and smart meters
- Help you get some emergency support if you can’t afford essentials
How to access Help through Hardship
If you’re experiencing hardship, you’re not alone. We’ll work with you to help you find a way forward.
Call our free, confidential helpline on 0808 208 2138 to speak to a friendly adviser.
Open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. Closed on public holidays.
If you live in England or Wales, you can access the service. If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland, see other ways to get help.
Support with accessing Help through Hardship
If you have difficulties communicating on the phone, require translation or British Sign Language interpretation, the below options can help you.
More information
Get emergency food
If you need help, your local food bank can provide an emergency food parcel. We can help you find out where to get a food voucher for emergency food.
