Many of us are struggling to pay for things with the cost of living going up.

If you or someone you know is having trouble, it's important to not only know what you're entitled to but also where there’s support.

Nadia and Mel, who work at Bromford, give their take on where and how to get that support.

• Use online tools like "Entitled To", these tools can help people find what benefits they qualify for
• Get all the cost-of-living help that you qualify for, such as £150 from your Council Tax and £66 a month towards your gas and electric
• Ask about social tariff broadband, this is a discounted internet service offered by some internet providers to low-income households or those who are experiencing financial difficulties.

Are you getting all the support you are entitled to?

Online tools like entitled to can help answer this question. Entitled to is an online benefits calculator that is used by people to find out what financial support they may be eligible for.

The calculator can help you determine what benefits, tax credits, and grants you are entitled to based on your individual circumstances.

It allows you to input information like income, employment status, and any disabilities or health conditions, and then calculates what benefits you may be eligible for.

As Mel and Nadia mention, even if it's only a small UC payment, it is a gateway to other support with living costs, such as the £900 cost-of-living payment, free school meals or free prescriptions.

Struggling financially? Let Bromford know

It’s important to contact Bromford early. The earlier you reach out for support, the more options and solutions will be available to you. Bromford's team can:

• work with you to maximise your income, explore different options and help you understand what you are eligible for
• help you navigate the system and find the support you need

Social tariff broadband

A social tariff broadband is a discounted internet service offered by some internet providers to low-income households or those who are experiencing financial difficulties.

These tariffs can be either a lower monthly cost or a lower-priced package that includes a smaller data allowance.

It's important to know that not all providers offer social tariffs, and the exact terms and qualifications may vary by provider.

As of February 2022, six broadband providers offered “social tariffs”. But as we’ve heard, they might not be that widely promoted and you’ll need to do some leg work first.

Our advice is to contact them and ask about their “social tarrif”.