The cost of living continues to stretch budgets for many households, so we wanted to remind you of some of the support that is available to you if you need it. 

For full information and advice, please visit the cost of living area of our website, which has information on the support we offer, as well as links to other charities and organisations who could help.

Westcountry Savings and Loans

If you are looking for an affordable loan or savings account, Westcountry Savings and Loans is a local credit union who can help, and as a LiveWest customer you are able to make use of their services. Credit unions offer loans which are affordable, with the option to borrow from £100 up to £15,000. Loans are offered for a range of purposes and interest rates are set based on your personal circumstances. Find out more on the Westcountry Savings and Loans website.

Government support

The government is still providing some financial support to some receiving certain benefits or tax credits. These include: 

• Cost of living payments for those on certain benefits or tax credits.
• Warm Home Discount, which removes £150 from energy bills for those who claim the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit, or those with high energy costs.
• Winter Fuel Payment, which is available for those born before 25 September 1957.

You can find out more about these payments and some of the other government support on their Help for Households webpage.

Energy advice

Saving money on your energy bills can help you to save money, and the energy advice section of our website helps you to do that. Our advice includes tips on managing your bills, how you can save energy, and information on different heating systems you may have in your home.