One-off or short-term payments after a crisis such as losing a job, fleeing domestic abuse, damage to your home, a broken essential appliance, or lost or stolen money.
Apply online. If you can't apply online, ring the Benefits team on 0191 433 5466. Council tenants can get help to apply from the Advice and Support team on 0191 433 6161.
A cut in your council tax bill if you're on a low income. Pensioners on low incomes can get the whole bill covered.
Worth: Up to your full council tax bill
Apply to your council. It isn't automatic, even if you get Universal Credit.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk/article/2649/Council-Tax-support
Run by Your council · Last checked 13 Oct 2026
Emergency help from your council when something goes wrong and you can't cover essentials like food, heating or a broken cooker.
Worth: Varies by council
Contact your council's crisis support team. The phone number and how to apply are on your council page.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk/article/20077/Crisis-and-Resilience-Fund
Run by Your council · Last checked 13 Oct 2026
Emergency food and low-cost food clubs near you.
Worth: Free or low-cost food
See your council's list of food support, or ask Citizens Advice for a referral.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk/article/20636/Food-banks-and-pay-as-you-feel-food-markets
Run by Local charities · Last checked 8 Oct 2026
Free activities and a healthy meal for children in the school holidays.
Worth: Free sessions
Book through your council's HAF page.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk
Run by Your local council · Last checked 13 Oct 2026
Up to half off your water bill if it's a big part of your income.
Worth: Up to 50% off your water bill
Apply through Northumbrian Water's Support Plus page, or ring 0345 733 5566 if you're struggling to pay.
https://www.nwl.co.uk/supportplus · 0345 733 5566
Run by Northumbrian Water · Last checked 13 Oct 2026
25% off council tax if you are the only adult living in your home.
Worth: 25% off council tax
Tell your council online or by phone.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk/article/2649/Council-Tax-support
Run by Your local council · Last checked 13 Oct 2026
Free, warm places to spend the day, often with a hot drink.
Worth: Free
Just turn up. Your council lists places and times.
https://www.gateshead.gov.uk/article/21258/Warm-Welcome-Spaces-directory
Run by Councils, libraries and community groups · Last checked 8 Oct 2026
We're still checking local places for this area. The council pages above have the latest lists.
Details checked against Gateshead Council's website on 13 October 2026.