Foodbanks are available in your local area, if you cannot afford to buy food.

To get help from a foodbank, you will need to be referred with a voucher, which can be issued by a number of local community organisations, such as schools, GPs, advice agencies and Eastlight Community Homes. Your local foodbank can also advise which agencies can help.

Click here to find your nearest foodbank here.

When money is tight and households come under stress, people are often more vulnerable and open to finding money in new ways. While we recognise the risk is low, here are some vital ‘Watch Outs’ to protect both yourself and your family:

• Watch out for fake payment scams

Any emails, texts or alerts asking you to call or submit an application to receive any cost-of-living payment from the Government are not legitimate requests. You do not need to apply or do anything to receive these payments; you will receive them automatically. Please click here for government guidance or see our advice for spotting scammers.

The same applies for any Council Tax Rebate you may be entitled to. Please call your council directly and confirm the identity of anyone who gets in contact with you to ensure they are true callers.

• Watch out for fake gift cards 

Don’t fall victim to free gift cards that might be circulating or landing in your inbox. Always check the email address of the sender and whether it is asking you to fill out a survey or provide any private information. If so, this is likely a scam.

• Watch out for loan sharks

Loan sharks can be anyone; they can even be someone you know or someone close to you. You can watch this video on how to spot a loan shark here.

The StopLoanSharks YouTube channel has countless stories and information to help you avoid getting into a vulnerable situation.

See more about what a loan shark is and how to safely report them here.

• Scam Advice

Criminals are taking advantage of the current crisis to advertise fake services or products that aim to exploit you financially or collect your personal information. They typically target people through emails, letters, phone or text, and succeed because they look and sound legitimate.

We have received reports that scammers are contacting our residents claiming to be solicitors specialising in disrepair and other cases related to housing. 

Please consider the following if you have been contacted by someone asking for information from you:

1. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
2. If you have never met the person contacting you, or are unsure that the business is genuine, take some time to do some research.
3. Check the spelling and grammar within emails, texts and letters. If it's a scam, it's often wrong.
4. Check to see if you recognise the name, email address or telephone number of the person contacting you.
5. Be alert to anyone asking for money or your bank details, and do not provide them with any information if you have any doubts.
6. Be wary of any links and attachments. Never enter your personal information, password or bank details if you do mistakenly click on a link.

If you think someone is trying to defraud or scam you, please contact us immediately if it concerns your home.

Please also report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.