Below features an article from the North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Partnership’s latest newsletter:

As winter approaches, many households face increased financial pressures due to higher heating bills and other seasonal expenses. The following organisations and schemes are available to support families that may need it.

Foodbanks: Foodbanks provide emergency food supplies to those in need. Organisations like the Trussell Trust operate foodbanks across North Yorkshire. You typically need a referral from a local agency to access these services.

Clothing Banks: Clothing banks offer free clothes and shoes to those in need. For example, the Harrogate Clothes Bank provides pre-loved clothing to the community, as does theclothingbank.org.uk

Community Support Organisations: Various local organisations offer support, including Warm Welcome Spaces where people can find a warm place to stay and access other resources.

Warm & Well – North Yorkshire Citizens Advice and Law Centre (NYCALC)

Emergency Payments:

Local Assistance Fund

The North Yorkshire Local Assistance Fund (NYLAF) provides emergency support for essential items such as food, utilities, and household goods. Applications are made through authorised agencies such as Children & Family Hubs, Living Well, IDAS.

North Yorkshire local assistance fund | North Yorkshire Partnerships

Budgeting Loans:

If you’re on certain benefits, you may be eligible for a budgeting loan to help with unexpected expenses. These loans are interest-free and repayable over time.

For further information, please see an extensive guide at – Cost of Living Support | North Yorkshire Council

Citizens Advice: Offers free, confidential advice on a range of issues, including benefits, debt, and housing. They can help you navigate the various support options available.

North Yorkshire Citizens Advice & Law Centre

Food Banks > Healthy Schools North Yorkshire – Information on Foodbanks

Vulnerability Commitment – Energy UK

Tackling Financial Insecurity Together | Turn2us – For advice, grants and support.