Help with the cost of Christmas
With the festive season upon us, we know that many families will be struggling to afford everyday expenses let alone Christmas. There is help out there from local services, community groups and charities if you need it. Use this short guide to access details of who can help with what.
Year-round cost of living advice
Read Amaze’s Cost of Living advice on benefits and grants, debt help, utility bills, food, and wellbeing and leisure
Your local authority websites are great sources of information about where to get help with the cost of living too:
- Cost of living support page – Brighton & Hove
- Cost of living support page – East Sussex County Council
Food over Christmas and beyond
Brighton and Hove Food Partnership has published a guide for details of Food bank Xmas opening times, low cost meals and how to help this Christmas (2024)
East Sussex County Council’s 1Space directory lists all the Food Banks, Community Food Hubs, and Soup Kitchens across East Sussex
HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) is a programme for children aged 4 to 16 who are in full-time education and receive benefits-related free school meals. During school holidays HAF provides free activities, along with a free meal:
Help with Christmas presents
You may be able to access toys, games and other presents through local churches, food banks and community groups. Some will have their own campaigns to gather and distribute gifts or they will work with local charities such as Pelican Parcels or national ones like the Salvation Army, Family Action or Action for Children.
You cannot apply to these charities directly. Speak to a professional you work with, or an organisation that supports you to ask about this kind of festive financial support.
If you have any queries about other types of support, email [email protected] or call 01273 772289.
