WARRINGTON Borough Council has highlighted the support available amid the cost of living financial challenges facing residents.

The council says it knows the winter months can be a ‘challenging time’, but there is ‘lots of support available’ in the town.

A spokesman added: “For cost of living support, the council has an online directory where you can find information about a range of organisations and schemes that can help you, some of which are national schemes and some which are local to Warrington.

“Find out more about support with food, household and energy bills by viewing the council’s cost of living directory warrington.gov.uk/cost-living-support.

“The cost of living directory also includes financial advice and information about benefits you might be eligible for, including pension credit, council tax support and a carers allowance.

“There’s also a range of mental health support if you are struggling this winter, including the happyoksad.org.uk directory, which features local and national mental health support services and information.

“This includes self-help ideas such as how to boost your mood and an online support directory providing access to help and information on various areas, including urgent help, self-harm, anxiety bereavement, money/debt, and more.”

Furthermore, the council says if you need support, but aren’t sure where to turn to, there are lots of organisations including the council that may be able to help:

  • Visit one of its community centres, where volunteers and staff from a wide range of services are available for advice, support and signposting. There will also be a number of free Safe and Well drop-in events taking place in community centres around Warrington, where you can get advice how to live well, free health checks and advice and support from a range of organisations.
  • Get support with food from a number of organisations including Warrington Foodbank, which has a range of services available and a range of food collection points. You can the team by phoning 01925 977630 or emailing info@warringtonfoodbank.org.uk.
  • Visit one of the Talking Points, which are places you can go to get friendly, face-to-face information, support and guidance to help you to live and stay well in Warrington. Find out more about the Talking Points across the town by visiting warrington.gov.uk/talking-points.
  • Visit the Living Well Hub on Horsemarket Street, which is open 9am to 5pm weekdays and until 8pm on Mondays and Wednesdays. The hub is a welcoming and fully accessible ‘one-stop shop’ for you to drop-in to get advice and support. Find out more at warrington.gov.uk/living-well-hub.
  • Visit the Gateway, which is the home to a number of the voluntary and statutory services such as Citizen’s Advice, Warrington Speak Up and Warrington Voluntary Action.