Everyday life is more expensive than it was before. For a variety of reasons, prices for things, such as food and energy, are going up.

Many people are finding that they cannot buy as much as they could before and are having to make tough decisions about what they spend their money on. This is what is being referred to as the cost of living crisis.

The rising cost of things is known as inflation. Major international developments, including the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, have led to high inflation throughout the world. Peoples’ wages and benefits have not increased at the same rate as inflation. This means that many are not able to buy as much as they could before and are struggling to pay bills and buy food and other essentials.

As with previous crises, many people and communities across the UK are stepping up and uniting to help those facing challenges during this period.

Examples of new and existing support services include:

• – Grants, these are typically non-repayable funds available to people who are struggling. They may be provided by local authorities, trusts, foundations or other organisations
• – Food banks, community pantries and food sharing apps are among those helping to reduce food costs for people and pet food bank networks have been created for furry friends
• – Warm banks, free public spaces in local communities where people can visit to keep warm if they are struggling to heat their home

To find support services in these and other areas, see our Cost of Living Support section at mypickle.org/cost-of-living-support