Oxfordshire Homeless Movement

Cost of living in general

Our partners have all reacted to the deepening cost-of-living crisis. Everyone wants to ensure that people can easily access the help and advice they need. For general advice on where you can get support concerning the cost-of-living visit Citizens Advice or the UK government advice page. Shelter have some useful general tips. There is also some SOHA guidance on what you are fully entitled to, contacting your utility company, keeping warm and who can help in your area. Though it's not a local service, NIDirect's helpful Universal Credit Explained videos help you understand more about this benefit. The videos can also help you make your claim for Universal Credit online.

Cost of living - local advice

Oxfordshire County Council has a dedicated section on their website about local cost of living support.

Your local council offers help and or advice with the cost of living. If you are not sure which district you are in, please use the link at the top of this list first:

Which district council should I contact?

I am worried about the cost of living in:

Oxford City

Cherwell

South Oxfordshire

Vale of White Horse

West Oxfordshire

Find more advice on specific issues below.

I can’t afford food

We’ve listed all links and information about food provision in one place: Daily Services shows exactly who is open and when across Oxfordshire. You can also check out the free and low-cost food options in Oxford listed by Oxford City Council, and the free or subsidised food within Oxfordshire map and database provided by Good Food Oxford, Feeding the Gaps, and the city council.

I can’t afford my rent

If you’re worried about losing your home, you should get advice as early as possible. See eviction risk advice to learn more.

If you’re in danger of losing your home and want to gain control over your finances and housing then you can contact Connection Support's Housing Support Team.

Shelter can help you understand your rights and get the support you need with Private Renting, Eviction, Mortgage Repossession, Tenancy Deposits and Council Housing.

If you are a permanent council house tenant in Oxford, you can seek help with managing your tenancy from the council's Tenancy Sustainment Team.

For general advice visit the UK’s largest tenant support community, The Tenants’ Voice.

I’m in debt

For confidential and independent advice on dealing with debt in the UK, you can call or visit the National Debt line on 0808 808 4000.

StepChange Debt Charity helps people in financial difficulty by providing free, confidential, independent and realistic debt advice. Helpline: 0800 138 1111

Citizens Advice Oxford may have suggestions. Their website includes the topics bankruptcy, budgeting , getting financial advice, debt management plans and a debt remedy tool. Phone: 0808 278 7909 Email: use their web form.

I can’t afford my bills

To find out what steps you can take if you’re struggling to pay energy bills you can visit Citizens Advice.

For advice on saving energy visit the government's website or call 0800 444 202.

To know how to spot an energy scam visit Energy Saving Trust.

If you are an individual, small business, nursery or school within the Vale of White Horse district you can apply for the Wantage & Grove Energy Support Fund.

I need other advice

For free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information, get in touch with Citizens Advice. The Oxford branch can be reached by phone: 0808 278 7909, email and online web chat, or see our list of Citizens' Advice Branches—under the heading 'key functions'.

Question not answered? Check the services listed—below, or choose another question—above. Alternatively, drop us a line on social media or get in touch. We will use your feedback to improve the site, and we want to hear from you.