New Cost-of-Living Support Guide Available Across Belfast

Belfast City Council has launched the third edition of its cost-of-living support guide, offering residents clear access to benefits advice, grants, mental health support, and practical ways to manage rising costs this winter. The free guide is available at community locations across the city and online.

Belfast Launches Updated Cost-of-Living Support Guide for Winter

The cost-of-living support guide Belfast residents rely on each year has been updated for winter, as rising living costs continue to place pressure on households across the city. Launched by Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Tracy Kelly, the guide directs people to a wide range of local support services, benefits advice, and grants.

The third edition of the guide offers clear signposting to community organisations that provide free, confidential advice on managing high energy, food, and household costs. It also highlights specialist support services for families, older residents, and anyone struggling with mental health or wellbeing.

What the Guide Includes

The new guide brings together practical and financial support, including:

• Benefits and welfare advice
• Grants and financial assistance
• Energy-saving tips
• Food support services
• Mental health and wellbeing resources
• Specialist support for families and older people

Councillor Tracy Kelly: Supporting the Most Vulnerable

In launching the guide, Councillor Tracy Kelly emphasised the ongoing strain facing many Belfast households:

“We are very aware as winter approaches that a lot of people in the city are finding it difficult to cover basic living costs. With the extra financial pressures of Christmas, poverty and hardship can have a huge impact on people’s emotional health and wellbeing.

“Our cost-of-living support guide aims to help the most vulnerable by ensuring they know what support is available. It also includes practical tips to help reduce energy, food, and other bills.”

She also noted the key financial support provided by Belfast City Council and the Department for Communities to many of the advice organisations listed in the guide. Alongside funding for 19 social supermarket projects, these efforts are making a significant difference for those most in need.

Where to Access the Support Guide

The free cost-of-living support guide is available at:

• Council buildings
• Community centres
• Leisure centres
• Libraries
• Chemists
• Foodbanks
• Social supermarkets
• Local advice service providers

The guide can also be accessed online at:
www.belfastcity.gov.uk/costofliving