07 January 2026
Essential Support: Resources to Help with the Rising Cost of Living
At Gateway Credit Union, we understand that from time to time we all need some help and support. With the rising costs of living, many people in Wales need that help now. We have compiled a list of valuable resources and services available to our members and the wider community to help navigate these challenging times.
Below is a range of support options, from grants and vouchers to advice on maximizing your income:
Carer Support Fund
Unpaid Carers can now apply for grants for essential items. These grants are available to support those facing financial hardship.
Find out more about the Carer Support Fund South East Wales here.
Food Vouchers and Food Banks
If you are struggling with food costs, help is available.
You can get vouchers from Citizens Advice, JobCentre Plus, GP surgeries, health visitors, and social workers, which can be used at your local food bank. If the food bank is run by the Trussell Trust, you can check the address on the Trussell Trust website.
For further information about food vouchers and food banks, visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk.
Claim What's Yours – Welsh Government Campaign
The Welsh Government is doing everything it can to put money back into people’s pockets. There is support available to you that could help you with some of your living costs:
https://www.gov.wales/claim-whats-yours-campaign
How to Find Lost Child Trust Funds for Free
If you’re over 18 and looking to access the money in your Child Trust Fund (CTF), there’s no need to pay to trace it if you don’t know the details. Use the free tools in this blog to find your CTF:
moneyhelper.org.uk/en/blog/young-people/how-to-find-lost-child-trust-funds
Helping Homes in Fuel Crisis
Fuel Bank Foundation is the only UK charity to focus on the challenges of people living in fuel crisis. Their work provides emergency financial support to those in need of heat and light.
Help for Households (gov.uk)
The UK Government has created the Help for Households website, which puts available financial support and advice all in one place.
