The cost of living is hitting people hard and Bolton Council, together with its partner organisations have joined forces to help those in need with specific help with food, fuel, and money.
Bolton Council has always offered a wide variety of support services for those struggling with their finances, but as prices continue to rise an increasing number of home owners and local businesses are finding it hard to make ends meet.
Free drop in events
To help address these concerns everyone is welcome to join two free drop-in sessions at Bolton’s Albert Halls from 9.30am to 1.30pm on Saturday 5th and Wednesday 9th November.
The first hour on each day is set aside for people who require a quieter time at the event for example, those with autism, learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders who would like to attend with their families.
A number of local organisations will be in attendance offering advice and guidance to visitors on ways to make food, fuel and money go further.
Organisations attending include Bolton At Home’s Money Advice and UCAN Services, Bolton’s Money Skills Service, plus many more charitable organisations and support agencies.
They will be offering tips on budgeting and energy advice, guidance on the next steps for people struggling with finances and there will be some raffle prices and free accessories to help people save money in their homes.
Bolton charity, Urban Outreach will also be offering slow cooker demonstrations throughout the event showing you how to cook on a budget.
The organisers also want to find out more about how the cost of living is affecting communities across Bolton including the challenges they are facing, the things they are having to do to make ends meet and what additional support they really need.
As part of the research attendees at the events will be asked for their views, plus a short survey will be posted online for people who could not attend to give their opinions which will help shape the support which is being made available to them.
Also, for those who can’t make it to the events, a page will soon be made available on the Bolton Council website with links and support to issues such as food, energy and fuel; debt, money and benefits; housing support; jobs and skills; health and wellbeing; and support for business.
Deputy Leader, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “Winter is fast approaching and it’s a difficult time for many, yet the ‘Bolton Family; always pulls together to get through challenging times.
“The rising cost of living is a major issue for many but there is professional support available to those in need when required.
“I’d like to thank the many organisations and charitable groups that are coming together across Bolton to support our communities, particularly at the Cost Of Living events as it makes a real difference to those struggling to cope in these difficult times.
“If you, or someone you know, is struggling to cope please come along and talk to the professional advisors as there is help available.”
For more information about the cost of living events contact moneyskills@bolton.gov.uk or call 01204 331968.