Short-term help with food, gas, electricity or clothing in a money crisis, plus furniture and white goods for people setting up home again.
Apply online through the Discretionary Social Fund. For urgent needs only, ring the Social Fund team on 01642 771276.
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://redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/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.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/discretionary-social-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.redcar-cleveland.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.redcar-cleveland.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://redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/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.redcar-cleveland.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 Redcar and Cleveland Council's website on 12 October 2026.