Council issues benefits check advice to help ease money worries

Links to online benefits calculators are available on a one-stop-shop cost of living support website set up by Swansea Council to help ensure people aren’t missing out.

Also included on the website is an overview of the various benefits available, as well as links to a number of local and national organisations that can give advice.

Other sections of the website give details on the locations of Swansea Spaces that have been set up to offer residents a warm welcome this winter.

Since going live in the autumn, the cost of living help website has already attracted close to 130,000 page views.

Cllr Alyson Pugh, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Better Communities, said: “This is a difficult time of year for many residents, who will be facing the financial fallout of Christmas spending.

“The impact of this and the cost of living crisis means some families will be struggling to meet ends meet, but one of the most important things people should consider is whether they’re receiving all the benefits they’re entitled to.

“Billions of pounds of means-tested benefits go unclaimed in the UK every year, which is why we have made links to benefits calculator tools available online to help ensure Swansea residents aren’t missing out.

“This is among many resources that form part of our one-stop shop cost of living help website, with signposting services to debt advice also available, along with tips to find employment and save money on energy bills.”

Head to www.swansea.gov.uk/costoflivinghelp for more information.

Residents who don’t have access to a computer or smartphone can access the website for free at any community library across the city.