If you are struggling the IoW Council has published a list of help available. Please see below for the different services available.
Support with the cost of living is available across the Island
- Use our cost of living web pages to see what’s available near you. You can also call us on 01983 823134.
- Contact Citizens Advice Isle of Wight on 0800 144 88 48 or enquiries@iwcab.org.uk. Their advice is free, confidential and independent. They can help with debt, benefits, legal advice and much more.
- Contact local energy saving experts The Footprint Trust for free advice on 01983 822282 or via their website.
- Use the connect4communities website to see what other support is available in your area.
- The government Help for Households website has information about help with childcare costs, benefits and many other schemes
Community pantries
A reminder – anyone can go to a community pantry; they are not means tested:
- Community pantries are free and for anyone so they can top up their weekly shop.
- Join a pantry and for £5 a week, receive over £15 worth of food.
- You don’t need a referral, contact your nearest pantry directly to join.
- Pyle Street Pantry opens this week
East Cowes Community Pantry
Community Spirited, Vectis Road, East Cowes, PO32 6HN
01983 296592
Opening hours:
Tuesday, 1:30pm to 3:30pm
Wednesday and Thursday, 10:30am to 12:30pm
Ventnor Community Pantry
Baby Box, Victoria Street, Ventnor, PO38 1EJ
07961 959003
Opening hours:
Tuesday 3pm to 6pm
Saturday 11am to 2pm
Ryde Community Pantry
Oakfield CE Primary School, Appley Road, Ryde, PO33 1NE
01983 563732
Opening hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Friday
3.00pm to 4.30pm
The Pyle Street Pantry, Newport (open Wednesday 3 May)
Newport Congregational Church, 98 Pyle Street, Newport PO30 1UH
pylestpantry.management@gmail.com
Opening hours:
Wednesday 11 am to 1pm
Two energy bill support schemes end 30 May 2023
Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding is for households who haven’t received their £400 energy bill support. This includes certain park home residents and partially or wholly self-funded care home residents.
For more information on eligibility and to apply go to this page on the government website.
A £200 Alternative Fuels Payment (AFP) is available for homes that:
- are in England, Scotland or Wales
- use alternative fuels for most of their heating, such as liquid petroleum gas (LPG), oil or solid fuel
- are connected to the electricity grid
You should have received an automatic payment for this. If you haven’t, please got to the government website for information and to apply.
If you would rather talk to someone or need help to fill out your application, call the government helpline on 0808175328.
