Crisis payments in an emergency, help with food or utilities, and help with furniture and white goods through the Community Support Scheme.
Ring Freephone 0808 178 9278 to apply for a crisis payment: 9am to 4pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am to 4pm Wednesday. You can also apply online.
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.middlesbrough.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-reduction/our-council-tax-reduction-scheme/
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.middlesbrough.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/contacting-us-about-your-benefits
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.middlesbrough.gov.uk
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.middlesbrough.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.middlesbrough.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-reduction/our-council-tax-reduction-scheme/
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.middlesbrough.gov.uk
Run by Councils, libraries and community groups · Last checked 8 Oct 2026
We're still checking local places for this area. Your council website has the latest list.
Details checked against Middlesbrough Council's website on 12 October 2026.