Cost of living Support
We know that the cost of living is a matter of deep concern and that the choice between heating and eating will have a big impact on people in the wider community, this winter.
Find out more about the available support below.
If you need urgent help with food view our Food support page to find local food banks, cafes and Warm Welcome Community Hub.
Staying warm
Our Share shacks are stocking up on electric blankets, slow cookers, heaters and more to help you stay warm with the increasing energy prices.
Our Ladywood Share Shack warm welcome hub is open daily with free activities, hot food and workshops. Please note, the Ladywood Share Shack will be closed on the 20th December 2024, and will reopen in the New Year.
We have Share Shacks across Birmingham, where you can go to borrow items to help you stay warm this winter. Find your nearest Share Shack here.
Food Support
Please see the Winter Wellbeing Hub page here for information on opening times for cafes during December. In January, Community Cafes will be open as usual for individuals to drop in and get a hot, nutritious, free meal.
On the 24th December 2024, we will be running a Christmas Eve Lunch at All Saints’ Church in Small Heath from 12PM – 1PM. Our Birmingham team will be serving up a three-course dinner, including soup to start, turkey with all the trimmings and mince pies. A vegetarian option will also be available. The meal is completely free of charge, but donations are welcome. No booking is required but it will be first come, first served. For more information, please contact [email protected].
If you’re based in Birmingham and are in need of food support, please find a list of food banks near you here.
Children & Families
Parenting is hard at the best of times, but with money worries, it can be overwhelming. That is why we have opened our doors at the warm welcome hub where you can enjoy a free hot meal, warm indoor activities and fun family play sessions to keep your children happy and active.
Find our activity finder for a full list of free activities taking place across Birmingham. Please see the Winter Wellbeing Hub page here for more information on last session dates for December. In January, sessions will resume as normal. Alternatively, we offer a variety of virtual activities that you can participate in from the comfort of your own home
Health & Wellbeing
The rising cost of living is on everyone’s mind and can have an impact on our mental health and wellbeing.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, speak to your GP for a referral on to our social prescribing service. Find out more about our social prescribing here