We know that at times life can be difficult, with unexpected expenses and rising bills. It is a good idea to check that you are getting all the support that is available to you. Benefits are there to help if you are struggling and just need some extra income to manage. Many people miss out on this help, so please do check if you qualify.
Are you getting everything you're entitled to?
You might be able to claim benefits or increase your current benefits if you're:
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of working age, on a low income and have low savings
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sick or disabled
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of State Pension age, on a low income and have low savings
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a carer
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responsible for children
You can check what you may be entitled to using these free, confidential tools:
Benefits you may be able to claim include:
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Universal Credit
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Working Tax Credit
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Child Tax Credit
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Housing Benefit
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
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Income Support
Need help in person?
Citizens Advice Bordon
Forest Community Centre, Pinehill Road, Bordon GU35 0BS Tel: 080 8278 7901 Mon-Fri 9.30am-4pm
Citizens Advice Haslemere
Well Lane House, Well Lane, Haslemere GU27 2LB Tel: 080 8812 7087 Mon-Fri 10am-4pm (phone) / Mon 1-3pm, Tue and Wed 10am-12pm (drop-in)
For a wide range of helpful guidance visit Citizens Advice cost of living help.
Money you may be able to claim
If you are retired and receiving a state pension, you may qualify for Pension Credit even if you have a small second pension or some savings. Visit gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234.
You may be able to get extra money from your energy supplier or a charity. Some grants are open to everyone, others depend on your situation — your health, or your previous or current job. Check your energy supplier's website for details. Ex-service personnel should look at SSAFA.
GDHA tenants: a Discretionary Fund is available for emergency assistance with essential household items. Contact the Housing Administrator for an application form.
Practical local help
Energy
If you receive benefits, you may be able to get £150 off your electricity bill or added to your prepayment meter through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. Payments are automatic if you were receiving qualifying benefits on 24 August 2025. You may still qualify if you receive benefits before 28 February. Check that your supplier is part of the scheme.
If you cannot afford to top up your prepayment meter, you may be able to get a fuel voucher — a code sent by letter, text or email that adds credit to your gas card or electricity key. Contact your supplier, Citizens Advice or your local council.
If you are on a low income, ask your water, broadband, phone or energy supplier whether they offer a social tariff — a discounted rate for people on lower incomes.
Food, clothes and essentials
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Haslemere Community Fridge — free food to reduce waste, no referral needed, open every day
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Headley Down Food Bank — Wednesdays, Community Church Hall, Eddys Lane, Headley Down, 1-3pm
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Haslemere Food Bank — Methodist Church, 5-7 Junction Place GU27 1LE, referral required (see website)
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Connect to Support Hampshire — links to help with debt, emergency food and keeping your home warm
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Haslemere Clothing Bank — free bundles of clothing for children and adults, runs via Facebook
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Fighting Chance Baby Bank — baby equipment and clothes for 0-5 years
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School uniform — speak to your school about uniform swaps or grants available
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Haslemere Repair Cafe — first Saturday of the month, help repairing small items
Looking after yourself
Your mental health is as important as your physical health. If money worries are affecting you, please talk to your GP.