Service
Benefits
Across Wales, many residents are facing real financial hardship. With rising living costs, reduced incomes, and barriers like digital exclusion, more people are struggling to make ends meet. Community and Town Councils are in a strong position to help—offering trusted, local support where it’s needed most.
94% of people in Wales have seen their living costs rise
3 in 5 households have cut back on essentials like heating and food
Over half of young adults have turned to food banks
Councils can make a real difference by helping residents access the benefits they’re entitled to, offering guidance, and connecting them with vital support services. This page provides guidance, funding links, and examples of what’s working across Wales to help councils take action, connect communities, and support those in need.
Resources for Councils
- Guide to Advice & Benefits Support – practical tips for councils, coming soon
- Guide to Older People Engagement & Services – PDF
- Guide to Working with Partners – PDF
- Guide to Digital Inclusion and Support – PDF
- Guide to Tackling Food Poverty – PDF
- Caia Park Community Council Case Study – PDF £1.5M in resident gains
- Mumbles Community Council Case Study – PDF (runs informal support cafés).
- Cwmaman Town Council Case Study – PDF (hosts Community Fridays for advice)
- Caernarfon Town Council Case Study – PDF (set up a charity shop for children’s toys and clothes)
Please contact the team at [email protected] if you would like us to send you copies of any of the resources featured in the recordings.
Signposting Support – Where to Direct Residents
- Recommend benefit calculators: Turn2Us, EntitledTo, MoneyHelper
- Welsh Government Cost of Living Support Hub – information on support and advice to help with the increased cost of living
- Care & Repair Cymru – Help for older people to live independently and safely
- Digital Communities Wales – Free digital inclusion training
- Volunteering Wales – Promote or find volunteer opportunities
- Age Cymru Benefits Advice – Support with benefits and entitlements
What Councils Can Do
- Host drop-in sessions or pop-up hubs.
- Offer free Wi-Fi and access to online tools.
- Print and display informational posters or guides for benefit and support awareness.
- Use precepts to fund advice services (see Caia Park Community Council example).
Examples from Wales
- Caia Park Community Council – Dedicated advice centre, long-term success.
- Mumbles Community Council – Informal café-style support delivery.
- Cwmaman Town Council – Partner-powered one-stop hubs.
Funding Information and Potential Opportunities
- National Lottery Awards for All Wales – funding community projects
- Welsh Government Discretionary Assistance Fund – provides 2 types of grants that you do not need to pay back.
- Household Support Fund – get help with essential costs from your local council
Council Powers Used
- General Power of Competence (if eligible)
- Section 137 powers for spending that benefits the community
The legal powers and justifications available to councils can differ based on their specific circumstances. For tailored advice and guidance, councils are encouraged to contact their One Voice Wales Development Officer.
[email protected]
Get in Touch
If your council is working to support residents facing financial hardship—or wants help getting started—please get in touch.
Email: [email protected]
Join the Conversation: Cost of Living Crisis – Facebook Group