If you are struggling to afford food, there are several local foodbanks, community meals and pantries that can help.
Lidl offers great value fruit and veg boxes for £1.50. These are usually available daily, but sell out, so get there early.
Daily living costs
Food and essentials
Get a benefit advance
You may be able to get money early if you are new benefit claimants in hardship.
This applies if:
- you are waiting for your first payment
- your payment has been delayed
- your circumstances have changed and your entitlement has increased
For a Universal Credit advance, visit the Apply for a Universal Credit advance or hardship payment on GOV.UK.
For a short-term benefit advance, visit the Get an advance on your first benefit payment on GOV.UK.
Hardship payments
You may be able to get a hardship payment if:
- your benefits have been reduced (sanctioned)
- you cannot afford essentials such as food, heating or rent
- you cannot borrow money from friends or family
You will need to explain:
- what you need the money for
- how much you need
- how long it will last
For DWP hardship payment, call 0345 608 8545.
For Universal Credit hardship payment, call 0800 328 5644. Universal Credit hardship payment is a loan and must be repaid.
Help with water bills
If you’re struggling to pay, you may be able to get a reduced bill or support with debt.
Portsmouth Water:
- offers reduced bills through the Helping Hand scheme
- visit Portsmouth Water for more information or call 0800 027 0363
Southern Water:
- offers reduced bills through Essentials Tariff
- if you are in significant financial hardship, you may qualify for the Southern Water Customer Hardship Fund
- visit Southern Water website for more information or call 0800 027 0363
Gas and electricity
If you have a pre-payment meter and have no money to top up, contact your supplier to request emergency credit.
If you have gas or electricity debts you are repaying, ask your supplier to reduce or temporarily stop the deductions.
For advice on saving energy and reducing bills, visit Switched On Portsmouth or call the freephone helpline on 0800 260 5907.
Mobile phones and broadband
You may be able to get cheaper broadband through a social tariff if you receive certain benefits, including:
- means-tested benefit such as Universal Credit
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
Contact your broadband or mobile provider to find out whether they offer a social tariff or other discounted packages.
Money Saving Expert also provides information on finding cheaper broadband, mobile phone and more.
Portsmouth leisure card
If you receive means-tested benefit, you may be able to get a Portsmouth leisure card. It gives you discounts on a range of culture and leisure services in the city.
Funeral costs
Find out if you’re eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment.
Quaker Social Action’s Down to Earth service helps people who have trouble paying for funerals. They can help you find money or grants from other organisations.