Council realises this is a difficult time for many households. Here is some information on finding the help that is available:

West Sussex County Council says it is working closely with district and borough councils and charities to support people and families who are struggling the most with the rising cost of living by using its Household Support Fund provided by the Government. Visit the County website: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/leisure-recreation-and-community/cost-of-living/ for practical advice and information about how to apply for extra local and national support. Then follow links to
- the ‘Community Hub’ that continues to offer direct support to vulnerable households, providing essentials such as food and supplies, as well as grants to those who are eligible.
- 36 West Sussex libraries offering a warm welcome to all visitors with staff on hand to help and advise on a range of topics, from money management to energy saving, job seeking and benefits guidance.
Regular library events like Story Time are free for families of young children. East Preston Library is open from 1pm-5pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and from 10am to 2 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Arun District Council has a webpage with advice on: Council Tax and Benefits, Debt, Energy Bills, Broadband and phone packages, warmer homes and on accessing food banks. It includes links to organisations offering advice such as Age Uk (Phone 0800 019 1310) and Citizens Advice (Phone 01243 974063). Visit the website: https://www.arun.gov.uk/cost-of-living/

Please do pass this information to those that might need it and look out for your neighbours or relatives (in person, by phone, social media etc.) to make sure they are safe, warm and well.