SOUTH Gloucestershire Council is working to help people in the area manage their budgets in light of the rise in the cost of living.

This summer, officers from the council’s financial support team will be out in shopping centres across South Gloucestershire to talk to people about the various help available as well as offering top tips to save money.

The pop-up roadshows will offer information about eligibility and how to apply for funds and extra support available to people who need it, including council initiatives such as the Community Resilience Fund and Household Support Fund. 

There will also be information on rebates and reductions, such as the Council Tax rebate and reductions in Council Tax, as well as guidance on where to check if you are eligible for national support such as the Universal Credit top-up payment.

The council has also produced tips and advice to help save money in and around the home. There will be information available on how to cook smarter to save money on energy bills, keep your house cool in summer and warm in winter, and how to make the most of the food you buy.. 

There will additionally be information on free days out with children for families to enjoy this summer, such as visiting our community farm in Kingswood, and activities to try during the summer holidays for little or no cost.

The dates of the roadshows are: 
• Monday, August 15, 10am-12pm St Mary’s Shopping Centre, Thornbury
• Thursday, August 18, 10am-2pm Willow Brook Shopping Centre, Bradley Stoke
• Thursday, August 25, 11am-3pm Yate Shopping Centre
• Tuesday, August 30, 10am- 2pm Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Kingswood.

Councillor Ben Burton, cabinet member responsible for corporate resources at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “The cost of living is continuing to rise and we know lots of our residents are facing the strain of higher bills and costs. 
“We want to help those in need as much as possible and by going out to busy places to talk to people in person, we hope we can provide some useful advice and tips to save money and how to access the support available."