Sandwell is a vibrant and diverse community. Based on the 2021 Census, around one in four people living here were […]
Read MoreFinancial Support
Caring for someone can sometimes affect your money, but you are not alone. There is support available to help you manage your finances and make sure you are getting everything you are entitled to.
On this page, you will find clear information about benefits, grants, and other types of financial help for Carers in Sandwell. Whether you are new to caring or have been supporting someone for a while, we are here to help you understand your options and feel more confident about your finances.
Information and Advice
Make sure that you are receiving the welfare and benefits that you are entitled to and be informed of managing someone else’s affairs.
Sandwell Carers Service’s information and advice service, delivered by Age Connect (formerly Age Concern Birmingham), provides guidance around benefits and entitlements call 0121 798 2372 (we can call you back to reduce phone costs) or email info@sandwellcarers.org.uk
Wednesbury Library hosts a Cost of Living Advice drop-in every Tuesday from 10 am – 3 pm. Call into the library on Walsall Street in Wednesbury WS10 9EH for free ongoing practical support around bills, budgeting and energy costs, which is especially relevant for Carers under financial pressure.
FREE Benefits Calculator
Forward Carers has launched a Benefits Calculator that is free to use and provides tailored support according to your results. There is no commitment required and using the calculator won’t affect any benefits you are currently receiving. You can even choose to read the information in another language!
FREE Data
If you feel like you are locked out of the digital world and you can’t connect with people online, or access vital services like online food shopping, banking, and medical appointments help is at hand. The National Databank is providing free data to people in need via Good Things Foundation’s network of community partners, in partnership with Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three.
You can apply for a free SIM with 6 months of unlimited calls and texts, plus monthly free data. The National Databank provides free data if:
- You’re over 18 and you
- Have a low household income
- Have insufficient internet access at home
- Have insufficient internet access away from home
- Can’t afford your monthly top up or contract
Call St Albans Community Association on 0121 558 0018 to apply.
Local Council Support
The supporting Sandwell Information Hub has an array of cost-of-living information to help you save money on your household costs.
Sandwell Council’s Local Welfare Provision Scheme (LWP) can give emergency financial help, food vouchers, furniture and white goods to people who are eligible.
Help with Food
Come along to St Albans Community Association (St Albans Road, Smethwick B67 7NL) for an hour on Mondays from 1.30 pm and on Thursdays from 12 noon to the Table for All, free food sessions. You don’t need to sign-up, subscribe or have a voucher, just turn up with your own bag.
You can also find other help with food and food banks and pantries on Sandwell Council’s website.
Debt Advice
Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall offers a dedicated debt helpline (0800 240 4420) and a general advice line (0808 278 7812). Face-to-face appointments are available as well as the Cost of Living Support Programme.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a charity that provides free debt help across the UK. Access Debt help via the Helpline 0800 328 0006 or on capdebthelp.org.
