Squeeze of the rising cost of living

Thanks to BBC Radio London for having us on the afternoon show yesterday to talk about support available for Bromley residents feeling the squeeze on their finances.

After hearing retired Bromley resident Hazel describe the struggle she faces each month, living off her £690 pension, Carol Robins, Bromley Well's Benefits Case Worker was on the show to tell people about the wide range of services offered by Bromley Well. This includes a benefits check and then if relevant, support to claim benefits like pension credit which can be a "passport benefit", opening up the way to many others.

Carol is one of Bromley Well's volunteers working in our partner charity Citizens Advice Bromley where around 60 local residents regularly volunteer.

Carol said "We can take around 10/15 calls during the day on benefits alone [...] and overall our Contact Centre took around 150 calls last Monday".

Bromley Well offers a holistic service so people can call us and be easily referred to services provided by partners at our local Mind, Mencap and Age UK.  This means we offer a wide range of help and support for residents -  including disabled people, older people and those needing mental heath support.

BBC presenter, Jumoké Fashola pointed out how stressful it must be living with daily financial worries.  Callers to Bromley Well can access support to help with their overall wellbeing.

 

Bromley Well freephone: 0808 278 7898

Bromley Well lines are open Monday - Saturday 9am-5pm.

Our Benefits Case Workers and other expert staff are available at various venues across the borough, face to face during the week - check our What's On page.

Carol said "After Christmas we always have an increase in calls - there's lots of debt this time year. Don't bury your head - see us sooner rather than later".

"I'd urge anyone to contact us [...] there's lots of benefits not being claimed that should be"

Listen on BBC Sounds

Visit BBC Sounds for the whole interview

3:38:00 - Bromley resident Hazel

3:44:40 - Bromley Well Benefits Case Worker Carol Robins

Show broadcast on Thursday 27 January 2022.