Personal finances
Debt
We understand that money problems can quickly spiral out of control, so it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Our Money Advice Team offer free, confidential advice to help you take control of your debts. We can work with you to prioritise your debts, find ways to help maximise your income, negotiate with your creditors, and if you have a high level of debt, refer you to agencies that can help.
If you need any assistance with debt, please get in touch with us by visiting the My Onward Portal, emailing moneyadviceteam@onward.co.uk, or calling 0300 555 0600 between 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday and 10am – 6pm on Wednesdays.
Borrowing money
Many of us may need to borrow money from time to time, due to an unforeseen emergency or to spread the cost of an expensive purchase for example.
Some types of lending, such as payday loans or doorstep lenders, can end up costing much more in the long run. If you need to borrow money, please get in touch with us using the details above for free, confidential advice on affordable forms of credit and how to access them.
Transport
There are plenty of ways to save money on transport, whether for work or for leisure. For train journeys, you can apply for a railcard for discounted tickets. For bus journeys, older people and those with disabilities can apply for a bus pass.
If you receive Jobseekers Allowance or Universal Credit, you may be entitled to a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card. This entitles you to a 50% discount on selected rail and bus tickets. The card is provided for three to nine months (for 18- to 24-year-olds) or three to 12 months (for over 25s). You can apply through your Work Coach or local Jobcentre Plus.
Other benefit recipients may receive a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card from three months of their claim and if they are actively engaged with a Jobcentre Plus adviser.
Family costs
With the rising cost of living, you may be eligible for extra support for you and your family, such as help with:
- Free school meals for families on low income or benefits
- The cost of food and milk if you are pregnant or have a child under the age of four
Training and employment
If you need help getting into work, training or volunteering, we have a number of initiatives that can support you with such as:
- Training courses
- CV writing and job applications
- Job searches and interview practice
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Career development
- Funding
For more information, please visit the Employment and Training section on our website.
We also work with hundreds of great community groups across the North West who may be able to help you onto a career path. For more information, please email socialinvestment@onward.co.uk or call 0300 555 0600.