Vouchers for food and for topping up a prepayment gas or electricity meter in a money crisis, plus help with household goods, furniture and carpets.
Apply online through the Local Assistance Fund, or get help to apply at your local library.
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.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/4303/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.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/27883/Local-Assistance-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.southtyneside.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.southtyneside.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.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/4303/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.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/25821/South-Tyneside-welcoming-places
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 South Tyneside Council's website on 12 October 2026.