Advice, benefits and emergencies

Our aim is to provide you with help and information, as efficiently and quickly as possible, even when it is about a service not run directly by the council. These pages provide information and help to deal with many of the issues that we face in everyday life including consumer advice and who to contact if you have problems paying your rent.

	Severe weather - closures and service disruptions >> In the event of severe weather, we will endeavour to keep this website up to date with the latest information on the availabity of council services, road and school closures.
	Preparing for winter >> Winter weather can be severe and can quickly disrupt our daily lives. By being aware and better prepared for winter we can help minimise interruption in our everyday lives both at home and when we are out and about. Even doing one or two simple things now could help save you time and money.
	Housing benefit and council tax reduction >> Housing benefit provides help with paying rent and council tax reduction provides help with your council tax, if you are on a low income.
	Money management and benefit advice >> In the current climate, we could all do with extra help - whether it's finding out about benefits, help with gaining new skills or just advice on how to save money.
	Emergencies >> simple steps everyone should take to be ready if an emergency occurs.
	Grants and funding >> A range of financial assistance is available such as housing grants, business grants, and school related grants.