Cost of Living
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The current economic climate is unpredictable and we know that at times like this, some families struggle.
Below are some useful resources and signposts to Cost of Living Support.
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Citizens Advice
https://www.citizensadviceeastleigh.org.uk/
They offer free, impartial, and confidential guidance on benefits, housing rights, and debt management, and have a specific outreach location right in the heart of Hedge End.
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Eastleigh Borough Council
They have gathered a range of support to explore, including:
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Direct financial help with benefits and grants
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Household basics support
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Energy assistance and efficiencies
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What to do if you find yourself in debt
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Looking after your wellbeing
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Hampshire Connect to Support
Providing signposts to organisations that can help with the cost of living.
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Hampshire County Council
https://www.hants.gov.uk/community/costofliving
Help and support is available from a number of services. This includes warm spaces in libraries to hot school meals and expert advice on reducing heating bills. They encourage everyone in Hampshire to take full advantage of these resources.
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Eligibility for Free School Meals (FSM)
https://www.hants.gov.uk/educationandlearning/freeschoolmeals/juniorsecondary
From September 2026, the eligibility criteria for free school meals (FSM) will expand to include pupils living in households in receipt of Universal Credit with an income above the current £7,400 threshold.
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School Uniform
https://www.gov.uk/school-uniform
You may be able to get help with school uniform costs. If you live in England, contact your local council to find out if there is support in your area.
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OLIO
OLIO connects neighbours with each other and with local businesses so surplus food can be shared, not thrown away. This could be food nearing its sell-by date in local stores, spare home-grown vegetables, bread from your baker, or the groceries in your fridge when you go away. For your convenience, OLIO can also be used for non-food household items, too.
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TOO GOOD TO GO
https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-gb
App to reduce food waste. When food businesses from supermarkets to restaurants, cafes and bakeries have surplus food they list it on the app as a Magic Bag which allows you to buy the food at a reduced rate so food gets eaten and not wasted.