https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/This group contains a range of tips, resources and signposting to support in relation to the cost of living. en-USTelligent Community 12https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/useful-financial-and-legal-informationWed, 23 Sep 2026 13:54:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ad20e67e-91d2-43de-b93c-b95443f77f6bASK INFOThis information has been put together to give you an overview of some of the services that are available to you. For further information please contact RN FPS at rnrm-wio@royalnavymail.mod.uk SERVICE-RELATED SUPPORT MOD Service Allowances & Entitlements Northern Ireland Resident Supplement: Provides a daily rate for personnel on permanent assignment in Northern Ireland to offset extra regional service pressures. Motor Insurance Refunds: Reimburses additional motor insurance costs specifically incurred due to a permanent assignment in Northern Ireland. Discover My Benefits - Royal Navy - Relocation White Ensign Association is a charity which provides confidential, independent FREE advice on all personal finance matters to all Serving and ex-Serving members of the RN, RM and Reserves and their families. www.whiteensign.co.uk Tel: 07384 575598 Forces Family Finance: "A team of financial advisers from the UK Armed Forces community, pairing expertise with an understanding of military life to support serving personnel, veterans and families." Mortgages, Insurances & Financial Advice for the UK Armed Forces Armed Forces Financial Services’ (AFFS) mission is to provide simple, clear and straight forward financial advice to service personnel, veterans and their families to improve their financial future. Armed Forces Financial Services Seafarer’s Advice & Information Line (SAIL) "SAIL is the only UK-wide Citizens Advice for seafarers and their partners. We are all experienced professional advisers who understand the issues you face. SAIL’s help is completely free. We provide support by phone, email and Zoom. SAIL also has monthly advice outreaches at Care Ashore , VOS and QVSR . We’re all Citizens Advice trained and the quality of our advice is checked regularly. www.sailine.org.uk Tel: 0800 160 1842 Services Insurance and Investment Panel (SIIAP) is a collection of authorised insurance and independent investment advisers, recognised by the MOD and operating on behalf of Service personnel. Members of SIIAP operate to a strict code of practice and all are specialists in their own area of expertise. www.siiap.org Poppy Scotland: Poppy Scotland have launched the Cost of Living Grants Programme. "This programme is designed to allow us to assist people who need help in a quick and easy way with everyday essentials such as kitchen appliances, clothes, and some furniture." To check eligibility and apply follow this link: Cost of Living Grants | Welfare | Poppyscotland Royal British Legion (RBL): We help to ease the burden of financial pressure for thousands of serving and ex-serving personnel every year The RBL is here to help ease the burden of financial pressures and transition into civilian life for the Armed Forces community. We provide specialist compensation advice, help with debt and emergency situations, and can support you through grant applications. Financial Support - Services and Advice For Veterans and AFC | Royal British Legion If you are having financial difficulties or feeling overwhelmed by debt, we're here to help Whatever the cause of the financial issues, RBL is here to help those in need get back on track with both benefit & debt advice and practical, financial support. Money and Debt - Guidance and Advice | Royal British Legion Naval Families Federation: "We have collated information to help you find the right support for you and your family – from guidance and top tips to managing your money, to benefits and news. " Family Finance Support & Advice | NFF Army Families Federation: The AFF has compiled a number of resources relating to debt and general finances that may be of assistance: Debt and Savings - Army Families Federation Money matters - Army Families Federation Forces Mutual offer free financial advice to members of the Armed Forces and their families to manage money worries with free debt advice. www.forcesmutual.org Tel: 0151 363 5290 Defence Discount Service (DDS) is the MODs Official Discount Service which is available to all Serving personnel, their partners and Veterans. DDS also provides a Defence privilege card at a small cost which ensures members who do not hold a MOD 90 access to all high street discounts. www.defencediscountservice.co.uk HM Forces Rail Card costs £21 and it'll save you 1/3 on most rail fares throughout Great Britain for a whole year. This is available to all Service personnel and their spouse/civil partner and dependent children and is administered by the Unit Personnel or HR Office within the assigned Unit. www.hmforces-railcard.co.uk Joining Forces Credit Union About Joining Forces: In 2015 the Ministry of Defence launched payroll deduction with three credit unions – helping Service Personnel to save and borrow with deductions from their salary. The initiative, known as Joining Forces, aims to help improve the financial resilience of Service Personnel and their families – providing an ethical, not-for-profit, alternative to other financial providers. Supported by the Ministry of Defence the Joining Forces Credit Unions provide financial education and awareness throughout the Armed Forces – helping Service Personnel save money to help prepare for their transition to civilian life and provide an option to borrow responsibly throughout their service career and beyond. www.joiningforcescu.co.uk Forces Law offers a wide range of services to meet the legal needs of Serving personnel and their families. The forces law network of solicitors exists to provide you with an easy way of contacting a firm that will be able to help you, wherever you may be. They can offer legal advice on all matters, from civilian issues to court martial. www.forceslaw.com Tel: 0808 271 0444 RMA – The Royal Marines Charity: Support the entire Corps Family in times of need – serving, retired and their dependant families. No matter what stage of your career or life, you can always turn to us for help. The grants office is your initial point of referral for assessment and determining where we are best able to support. Contact the Grants and Benevolence Team on 0800 468 1664. Grants and Benevolence - RMA - The Royal Marines Charity The Armed Forces Commissioner "Your welfare, our mission. Standing for Service people and their families" The role of the Commissioner is to provide independent and impartial oversight of the Service Complaints system for members of the UK Armed Forces, and to act as a direct point of contact for serving personnel and their families, who will be able to raise general service welfare concerns that may impact on their service lives and their ability to serve. The Armed Forces Commissioner The Confederation of Service Charities (COBSEO) represents the whole Serving and Veterans Community. It provides details of Charities who promote and further the welfare and general interests of the Armed Forces Community and includes our Naval Service Charities which can also be sourced via RN FPS Information Support Office. www.cobseo.org.uk Royal British Legion (RBL) helps the whole Armed Forces community through welfare, companionship and representation as well as being the Nation's custodian of Remembrance. They offer advice and support on a whole range of topics, including benefits and money advice, benevolent help as well as family holiday breaks and a telephone helpline, free will service etc. RBL also have ‘Pop in Centre’s in various locations across the UK. www.britishlegion.org.uk Helpline Tel: 0808 802 8080 Turn2us provides financial advice, information and guidance on benefits and grants available to serving members of the Armed Forces and Veteran. www.turn2us.org.uk Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) provide a range of support to Serving personnel, veterans and their families including the Forces Helpline, Short Breaks, Additional Needs and Disabilities Forum and a National Volunteer programme. How can SSAFA help my financial situation? Our caseworkers will let you know about qualified debt advisors working in your area, although they cannot give advice themselves. Once you have received specialist advice, they can then look for ways to help with any priority debts – these are debts where you are at risk of losing your home or supplies of essentials such as gas or electricity. Financial planning support | Welfare and benefits | SSAFA www.ssafa.org.uk Tel: 0800 260 6780 Forces Helpline: 0800 260 6780 Veterans UK help ex-Service personnel get appropriate support from government, local authorities, independent bodies and the charity sector. They also administer the armed forces pension schemes and compensation payments for those injured or bereaved through Service and also provide welfare support for veterans through a national Veterans Welfare Service and veteran’s helpline facility. www.gov.uk/government/organisations/veterans-uk The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust (RNBT): RNBT provides financial assistance and support to Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel and their families in times of need. The RNBT makes close to 3,000 grants each year. Individual Grants are made to cover essential costs – typically food, clothing and utility costs (for UK residents only) – but they can also assist with many other costs, including: training and education for employment, furniture and furnishings, rent arrears and rent in advance, specialist medical equipment and mobility aids (e.g. EPVs, stair-lifts and riser recliner chairs), and help towards care home top-up fees and domiciliary care costs. Who we help: RNBT is a Royal Navy & Royal Marine charity that gives help, in cases of need, to serving and former Royal Naval ratings and Royal Marines other ranks; they are known as Primary Beneficiaries. We also help their partners, children and some others connected with them. Financial Assistance Application Form | Royal Navy Support Service Pensions support is provided by Veterans UK. The ‘Service to Civvy Street’ campaign provides guidance to Service Personnel to ensure they are ‘pension ready’ for Civvy Street. www.gov.uk/government/news/service-to-civvy--2 Veterans Gateway is made up of a consortium of organisations and Armed Forces charities including The Royal British Legion, SSAFA and Combat Stress to offer a ‘first point of contact’ for veterans seeking support. www.veteransgateway.org.uk Tel: 0808 802 1212 Pax Insurance: Main site: www.paxinsurance.co.uk Tel: 0800 2124 800 Offer a range of insurance plans including kit, travel and personal accident or life insurance. A Personal Accident Plan can help protect you and your family against potential financial hardship should the worst happen. You may apply for PAX Personal Accident and Optional Life and Critical Illness Insurance for yourself, and if applicable, your family, if you are a member of HM Regular Armed Forces, in Full Time Reserve Service or on a Non-Regular Permanent Staff engagement. For all Personal Accident and Optional Life queries, please call 01423297297 or email info@palprotect.co.uk . National Insurance Credits for Spouses new Class 3 NI credits have been introduced in recognition of the fact that accompanying on deployment overseas may have affected a Service spouse or civil partner’s ability to work and pay NI contributions. www.gov.uk/dwp/ni-credits-armed-forces-partners Service Will is available at no cost through the UPO/Ships Office however this will is a basic one and if you have a complex lifestyle or have valuable assets it is always good to speak with a Solicitor or Will Writer. It is beneficial for Service personnel to note on JPA if they have a Will and where it is stored. www.forceslaw.com OTHER SUPPORT Citizens Advice: Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free independent and confidential advice. Get help with the cost of living - Citizens Advice www.citizensadvice.org.uk Savings: Money Saving Central - The Home of Money Advice Places Kids Eat Free (or for £1) During School Holidays 2026 - "updated every half term". StepChange Debt Charity offers free debt advice and money management support. www.stepchange.org Tel: 0800 138 1111 National Debtline offers free debt advice online through its My Money Steps tool and its web guides, fact sheets and sample letters. www.nationaldebtline.org Money Helper’s range of guides, online tools and calculators make managing your money in uncertain times simpler. www.moneyhelper.org.uk Payplan offer advice and guidance on how to manage your money effectively and understand the impact your finances can have on every aspect of your life, with their Financial Education and Financial Wellbeing tools. www.payplan.com Department of Work and Pensions provides support with work, benefits and pensions. www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pensions/about Government help with childcare costs information can be found by visiting the ‘childcare choices’ website. www.childcarechoices.gov.uk Unbiased is a website where you will find independent and restricted ‘whole of market’ advisers. Restricted ‘whole of market’ means advisers who can offer available products from all companies, but who may specialise in a particular area, such as pensions. www.unbiased.co.uk Law Society holds details of Solicitors across England and Wales, including those that are members of Forces Law. www.lawsociety.org.uk Gov.uk has a search engine to help you find a legal advisor or family mediation that have a legal aid contract within England and Wales. http://find-legal-advice.justice.gov.uk/ Law Scotland holds details of Solicitors and a network of legal support. www.lawscot.org.uk Law Society Northern Ireland holds a comprehensive list of Solicitors. www.lawsoc-ni.org/solicitors Wills It is a commonly held and incorrect belief that the next of kin will automatically receive the proceeds from an estate and all effects in the event of death; all too often this is found not to be the case. If a married person dies ‘Intestate’, i.e. without a will, the spouse may only be entitled to a portion of the estate. Some of the Armed Forces Charities, such as RBLI, offer free Will writing services. www.gov.uk/make-will/overview Powers of Attorney are legal documents with which you give someone power to look after your finances and/or your health and welfare. There are two main types. Permanent powers of attorney can only be used if you lose mental capacity to make decisions for yourself and general or ordinary powers of attorney where you give someone power to manage your finances in specific circumstances. If you only want someone to be able to use your bank account, you can ask your bank to set up a third-party mandate. www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney/overviewhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/sail-seafarers-advice-and-information-line---help-with-money-worriesWed, 23 Sep 2026 11:42:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:257055fe-670e-4ac1-9417-051ccf90db64ASK INFO"SAIL is the only UK-wide Citizens Advice for seafarers and their partners. We are all experienced professional advisers who understand the issues you face. SAIL’s help is completely free. We provide support by phone, email and Zoom. SAIL also has monthly advice outreaches at Care Ashore , VOS and QVSR . We’re all Citizens Advice trained and the quality of our advice is checked regularly." The services SAIL provide are varied and include any financial issues you might have: Money Worries: Whether it’s a period of illness, loss of your job or a sudden unexpected bill, it’s easy to let your financial situation get out of control. So if you’re worrying about money, get in touch with us. We can advise on debt or give you help on how to manage your finances better. All our advisers are fully trained to give debt advice and help you find the best way out of your money problems. In fact, SAIL’s got a specialist quality mark for debt advice so you’re in safe hands. We’re regulated by the FCA to give 1-to-1 debt advice. The law about debt in Scotland is very different to the rest of the UK. We can help. Some tips when you’re having money worries: Don’t ignore the problem as it will probably get worse Do get help as soon as possible, but Don’t ever pay for debt advice Do get all your statements together so you know your situation Do keep speaking to your creditors Do deal with the most important debts first — rent & mortgage arrears, utility & council tax debts, court fines. Our phone lines are open from 10am to 4pm on weekdays. Calls to our number are completely free from UK landlines and mobiles. 0800 160 1842. An online contact form is also provided on their website at: Contact - SAIL For general advice or for other concerns please see the website for relevant options: Information & Advice - SAILhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/the-healthy-start-scheme---help-to-buy-food-drinkWed, 23 Sep 2026 11:25:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ca0ab2be-f08d-460b-88cf-7826f6c8d17cASK INFOWhat is Healthy Start? If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. You’ll get money added onto your Healthy Start card every 4 weeks. You can use your card to buy: plain liquid cow’s milk fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables fresh, dried, and tinned pulses infant formula milk based on cow’s milk You can also use your card to collect: Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding vitamin drops for babies and young children – these are suitable from birth to 4 years old. If you live in Scotland You can get help from Best Start Foods (opens in a new tab) instead. FIND OUT MORE: Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/childcare-checker---find-out-whatWed, 23 Sep 2026 11:15:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:17e9acda-5680-49bd-bd5c-04451cdfbe24ASK INFODid you know that you may be able to get government help with childcare costs? Whether you have toddlers or teens you could get support. Follow the links below to find out more: Go to the Government website "Get Childcare" and find the step by step guide to getting childcare which lists how to find childcare, get help paying for it and what to do if your circumstances change. Use the links provided within the site to check what you're entitled to and your childcare options. Best Start in Life - Best Start in Life - a series of guides providing "Advice and support 
for your child’s development From pregnancy to childcare right through to starting school." Use the "Childcare Checker" to help you find local child care providers or wrap-around-childcare together with the associated costs which can help you with budgeting. Please also see the RN Forum article relating to the new Defence childcare scheme, the UK Nursery Authority (UKNA), which supports eligible working Service families who live in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It reimburses the difference in early years childcare costs, matching the “free” (Government funded) childcare hours they would be entitled to if assigned to England. FIND OUT MORE: UK Nursery Authority (UKNA) or visit the relevant pages on "Discover My Benefits". Further Information: Tax Free Childcare: Tax-Free Childcare can help with the cost of paying for childcare. You’ll need to set up a childcare account, which both you and the government will pay into. You can then use this money to pay your childcare provider. FIND OUT MORE: Tax Free Childcare Universal Credit: You may be able to claim Universal Credit to pay some of childcare costs, depending on your joint income. For more information, eligibility and how to claim, see gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-childcare-costs NB: If you are in receipt of Universal Credit you cannot claim Tax-Free Childcarehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/the-royal-navy-officers-charityWed, 23 Sep 2026 09:50:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:f6e98d35-38eb-479f-b88a-a7dbac7320cfRN FPS HQFounded in 1739 "The Royal Navy Officers' Charity (RNOC) provides benevolence to both serving and retired officers of the Royal Navy (RN, RM and QARNNS), their spouses, former spouses and dependants who are in need of financial support. Examples of support provided: Grants have been provided to former officers and widows suffering from poverty and poor health living in Commonwealth and other countries. Grants have also been provided to serving and retired officers with severe disability, providing specially adapted bikes/vehicles so they can remain mobile and active. Working with partner agencies the RNOC aims to support with the following issues: Financial Family Housing Health Wellbeing General Bereavement The RNOC completes means-testing on all applications which calculates disposable income and available savings. The Charity works closely with sister organisation the Association of Royal Navy Officers (ARNO) whose members help support the RNOC. "T he Association offers a wide range of membership benefits, both in the form of our own services and through substantial discounts via our affinity partners". For more details go to ARNO | The Association of Royal Navy Officers How to Apply If you require assistance, please contact us on 020 7402 5231 or email enquiries@rnoc.org.uk For further information of the RNOC’s work and impact see ARNO | RNOC - ARNORNOCOfficerscharityARNORoyal Navycost of livinggrantshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/greenwich-hospitalWed, 23 Sep 2026 09:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ffb9c99c-dfb2-49e4-8b65-8cb78522b7ecRN FPS HQHelping the Royal Navy Community thrive Greenwich Hospital "focus on funding proactive and preventative interventions that can deliver positive change in people's lives. We fund support and projects to help the Royal Navy community thrive, ensuring that former and serving personnel and their families do not face additional disadvantage". They provide several grants which are listed here: Educational Bursaries for serving and former serving RN, RM and RFA Personnel and their families School Bursaries: If you are serving or former serving Royal Navy, Royal Marines or Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and looking for a bursary for your child to study at Royal Hospital School, please contact RHS to see if you are eligible and for details about how to apply. LDO Bursaries: If you are serving personnel and looking for a bursary to support your studies, please contact the Learning and Development Organisation by visiting the L&D area of MyNavy to see if you are eligible and for details about how to apply. Serving Personnel Grants We work with the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) to fund welfare, educational and recreational projects and activities for the Royal Navy community. We fund specific welfare, educational and recreational projects and activities, enabling those serving to access otherwise unavailable opportunities. Royal Hospital School Bursaries Bursaries to pupils of parents of serving and former serving RN/RM personnel. If you are serving or former serving Royal Navy, Royal Marines or Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and looking for a bursary for your child to study at Royal Hospital School, please contact RHS to see if you are eligible and for details about how to apply. Grants to Individuals We work with other charities and organisations to provide funds to support individuals, whether serving or former serving Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and their families. Partner with military charities and the Royal Navy to provide welfare and training grants to individuals, working with partners and organisations to provide funds to help people cope with an immediate crisis and re-build their lives. Direct applications are not accepted . Grants to Organisations Fund proactive and preventative programmes that strengthen the health and welfare of the Royal Navy community. Our support enables initiatives that enhance wellbeing and create life-enhancing opportunities. Further information can be found at Greenwich Hospitalbursarieshospitalcharitygreenwichcost of livinggrantshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/dds---pull-up-a-chair-dinner-is-servedTue, 22 Sep 2026 14:55:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:496747d2-9b35-4ff7-8894-9c5052b4bde6RN FPS HQThe Defence Discount Service offers a broad range of discounts to help your money go a bit further. These are the main discount areas covered: Beauty & Wellbeing Children & Baby Fashion Food & Drink Gifts & Flowers Holidays & Travel Home & Garden Tech & Mobile Sports & Fitness Things to do (Leisure and entertainment) Defence Discount Service provides discounts both online and on the high street for members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and Armed Forces Community. Defence Discount Service is home of the Defence Privilege Card , the vetted discount card that can be used in stores, restaurants and venues to obtain armed forces discounts. This discount card allows Veterans and the Armed Forces Community to have a card that can allow them to receive military discounts.defencerestaurantmealcost of livingfoodservicediscounthttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/tax-free-childcare-accountTue, 22 Sep 2026 13:54:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:9e052981-d010-4bed-ae78-1903e12a7b2bFormer MemberDid you know that you can get up to £500 every 3 months (up to £2,000 a year)** for each of your children to help with the costs of childcare using the Tax-Free Childcare account? ** The amount goes up to £1,000 every 3 months if your child is disabled (up to £4,000 a year). Your childcare provider must be signed up to the Tax-Free Childcare scheme. Before you apply, you’ll need to check with your provider that they’re already signed up. If you get Tax-Free Childcare account online, for every £8 you pay into this account, the government will pay in £2 to use to pay your provider. Check to see if you're eligible: Tax-Free Childcare: Check if you're eligible - GOV.UK For more information and details on how to apply please visit GOV.UK Tax-Free Childcare . Applications can be made at this Govt. site: Tax-Free Childcare: Apply for Tax-Free Childcare - GOV.UK To find out what other options and support are available for childcare please visit Childcare Choices . Remember to also visit follow Children and Young People for specific updates.Energy crisisMoney Worriesdebt managementcost of livingCost of living crisisFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/council-tax-discounts-and-exemptionsTue, 22 Sep 2026 08:10:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:1a7cae50-a66d-4c0a-8e48-0f3d43881ecbFormer MemberShould you be receiving a Council Tax or Contribution in Lieu of Council Tax (CILCOT) discount or exemption? You’ll usually have to pay Council Tax if you’re 18 or over. A full Council Tax bill is based on at least 2 adults living in a home. Spouses and partners who live together are jointly responsible for paying the bill. Who is not counted for Council Tax? Some people are not counted (‘disregarded’) when working out how many people live in a property. This means you might be able to apply for a discount on your Council Tax bill if you get one. You’re disregarded if you’re: under 18 years old on certain apprentice schemes 18 or 19 years old and in full-time education a full time student at college or university under 25 years old and get funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency a student nurse a foreign language assistant registered with the British Council severely mentally impaired a live-in carer for someone who is not your partner, spouse, or child under 18 a diplomat For more information on how to receive you Council Tax discount please click here to visit gov.uk or visit your local councils website for further details. CILOCT Contribution in lieu of council tax (CILOCT) is what all families living in SFA/SSFA pay instead of council tax. CILOCT is collected by the MOD and then paid to the councils dependent on how many SFA are in their area. Irrespective of normal entitlement to Service accommodation CILOCT will be always charged at a rate consistent with the accommodation charge. In common with normal Council Tax rules, a discount of 25 percent is applicable to single householders living as single adults in SFA or the substitute equivalents who pay CILOCT. The discount is not payable to personnel with a PStat Cat of 1s, 5s or those living with a LTRE(E) partner, unless the spouse or partner meets one or more of the criteria .  To qualify for a discount, an occupant must be living alone, or solely with persons who fall into one of the following categories:  A. Children under 18. B. People on apprentice schemes. C. 18/19-year-olds in full-time education.  D. Full-time college and university students (excluding Service personnel in receipt of their normal salary). E. People under 25 who get funding from the Skills Funding Agency or Young People’s Learning Agency. F. Student nurses. G. Foreign language assistants registered with the British Council. H. People with a severe mental disability. To qualify for the concession, a doctor’s certificate must be provided to a suitably qualified person (not below OF3) to certify that the individual has a severe mental disability. I. Live-in carers who look after someone who is not their partner, spouse or child. J. Diplomats. Service personnel who claim the 25 percent CILOCT discount must give immediate notification to their unit HR of any changes of circumstances that may affect their eligibility for the discount. For further information about CILOCT please read JSP464 Volume 3 (see section 2)financialMoney Worriescost of livingdebthttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/naval-children-s-charity---cost-of-living-resourcesFri, 18 Sep 2026 13:23:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e6c0e3ca-23bc-4313-a59e-342c922f9b7eASK INFOThe cost of living is an ongoing concern for many. The Naval Children's Charity have a list of resources - both general and targeted at Naval families - that can help during these difficult times. FIND OUT MORE: Naval Children's Charity - Cost of Livinghttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/aggie-s-pastoral-supportFri, 18 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:1b6855c6-b4fa-4f90-a25b-7923fde309ddRN FPS HQAggie’s Pastoral Workers are based at RN and RM establishments across the UK and they are available to support you and your family. Aggie’s Pastoral Workers are available to listen and chat, meaning that you can opening and confidentially share your concerns. Aggie’s Pastoral Workers can provide advice and signpost you to other charities and organisations who can provide specialist help. You can find your nearest Pastoral Worker by clicking this link Where to find us — Aggiespastoral supportcharityconfidentiallistening earcost of livinghttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/the-royal-navy-benevolent-trustFri, 18 Sep 2026 12:50:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:918afa14-083d-4474-981f-6a575ab046d3RN FPS HQSupport from The RNBT is grouped into these distinct areas, also referred to as ‘categories of need’. We always consider applications from those who really need help, although there are some circumstances in which our Royal Charter may preclude assistance. Areas of Support Family Housing Emergency help, food, clothing Health, including addiction Personal debt, financial wellbeing Employment and training Assistance with independent living Digital inclusion Care home and domiciliary care top-up fees Examples of Support Provided The following items fall within the broader areas of support listed above. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. Council tax Education Energy/fuel Funerals Furniture/furnishings House adaptations (medical) House repairs Household goods Legal expenses related to bankruptcy, Power of Attorney or adoption proceedings Medical and dental Mortgage Removals Rent Respite breaks Telephone If you’re part of the Royal Naval community and facing hardship, please don’t wait – get in touch today. We’re here for you. Submit a confidential request for help now using the contact form on the website RNBT - Get Help If you prefer to phone us, you can call our Helpline on 02394 216294 during our working hours – Monday to Thursday between 0800-1600 and Friday between 0800 and 1530. You can also email help@rnbt.org.uk . RNBT also provide a step by step guide on how to apply for a grant. FIND OUT MORE: Financial Assistance Application Form | Royal Navy Support For wider information about RNBT please visit their website: Royal Naval Benevolent Trust | Royal Marine & Navy CharityrepairselectricEnergy crisisMoney Worriesrentcouncil taxgasfoodRNBTCost of living crisisinsulationclothingfurnituredebtFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/headspace---mindful-moneyThu, 03 Sep 2026 15:40:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:f11c0f77-a8be-4737-a137-2ca3af8f0702RN Forum ModeratorMeditation and mindfulness can be useful tools to help you manage stress, anxiety, and fear that you may be experiencing. If you have financial concerns, including those arising out of the current cost of living crisis you may wish to consider this option from Headspace. Meditation and mindfulness approaches to financial concerns: "Mindful Money: Learn to approach finances through a lens of awareness and compassion with our new Mindful Money toolkit. From spending money to talking about it to coping with the feelings it stirs up — this new collection of meditations, exercises, and videos with experts brings new meaning to the term “financial wellness.”" FIND OUT MORE: Mindful Money - Headspacehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/energy-bills-support-schemeThu, 03 Sep 2026 14:50:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:52df3a70-5036-4010-8698-79222dd7cb61Former MemberIf you’re on benefits or have a low income you may be eligible for: the Warm Home Discount Scheme energy-saving improvement schemes home energy support payments Warm Home Discount Scheme You could get £150 off your electricity bill for winter 2025 to 2026 under the Warm Home Discount Scheme if you either: get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit are on a low income The Warm Home Discount Scheme is not available in Northern Ireland. Find out about the Affordable Warmth scheme . For further details please visit: Help with your energy bills: If you're on benefits or have a low income - GOV.UK Also visit Cost of living support: Overview - GOV.UK for information and guidance on Household costs, childcare cots, Income support, transport costs and finding work.electricEnergy crisisMoney Worriesdebt managementgascost of livingCost of living crisisFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/cost-of-living-help-guide---money-saving-expert-90-ways-to-saveThu, 03 Sep 2026 14:40:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:62181b48-ce8a-4840-b2c8-229f34764a47Former MemberIn response to the Cost of Living Crisis the team at Money Saving Expert (MSE) have compiled 90+ ways to save money during this situation. To access the suggestions please visit Money Saving Expert Ways to Save , MSE also have a whole range of supportive resources and tools to help during this period, to read them please visit Money Saving Expert Cost of Living Crisis Help . In addition you can find other useful guides relating to the cost of living in terms of energy pricing including What to do if you're struggling to pay your energy billsEnergy crisisMoney Worriescost of livingCost of living crisisFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/free-prescriptions-and-nhs-prescription-prepayment-certificateThu, 03 Sep 2026 14:35:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:243150db-5c86-4acc-9135-8959849a3aefFormer MemberFree Prescriptions You can get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed, you: are 60 or over are under 16 are 16 to 18 and in full-time education are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx) have a continuing physical disability that prevents you going out without help from another person and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx) hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability are an NHS inpatient You're also entitled to free prescriptions if you or your partner (including civil partner) receive: Income Support income-based Jobseeker's Allowance income-related Employment and Support Allowance Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Universal credit and meet the criteria If you're entitled to or named on: a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate You qualify to recieve Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element (or both) a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2) People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help. To find out more on eligibility, and how to apply for an exemption certificate please visit: NHS Who can get prescriptions - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/who-can-get-free-prescriptions/ NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC's) A PPC could save you money if you pay for your NHS prescriptions. The certificate covers all your NHS prescriptions for a set price. You will save money if you need more than 3 items in 3 months, or 11 items in 12 months. To find out more please visit: https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/buy-prescription-prepayment-certificate/startMoney Worriesdebt managementMoneycost of livingCost of living crisisdebtFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/benefits-calculatorsThu, 03 Sep 2026 14:34:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:17f0641c-18b9-4a82-b3e3-80722925afc0Former MemberMillions of people are missing out on support that they are entitled to. To completed a free quick assessment online visit Entitled to or turn2us and find out if you can claim any further support. If you already are receiving support make sure you household details are up to date, this includes: - Number of Adults - Children's Details - Rent amount - income Make sure you also check that any deductions that are being taken are correct, please ensure that you check your statement page of your universals credit online journal, if you have, and check your latest award letters for any other suggested benefits that you should be receiving.Money Worriesdebt managementMoneycost of livingCost of living crisisdebtFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/tips-when-planning-a-budget-plannerFri, 28 Aug 2026 13:20:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:38c0861c-a050-44b6-9b47-1889b3a954b2Former MemberHave you thought about making a budget planner? Are you not sure where to start or unsure if it would help you? A personal budget can show how to distribute you income effectively, how to support with savings, and get out of debt. We have found several helpful articles about budget planning and how to get started, click on the links below to find out more: Money Helper - Budget Planner Money Saving Expert - The Budget Planner Making A Budget Plan. Free Templates & Help. StepChange Work out your budget - Citizens AdviceEnergy crisisMoney Worriesdebt managementcost of livingCost of living crisisFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/is-it-time-to-changeFri, 28 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:a34f52e7-ff34-42d3-87eb-bc9207809c82Former MemberIs you mobile phone, broadband or TV contract or traffic come to an end? Then maybe its time to think about switching. Switching allows you to access better coverage, faster internet speeds, improved devices and better perks. If you've been with the same provider for many years, you could be using handsets or old equipment that's no longer supported with important updates, and new devices allow you to also guard against emerging cyberthreats. One of the biggest benefits during the time is being able to find better tariffs or contracts which save you money. The articles below provide some good advice and what to consider when switching. MSE Mobile Phone Finder: Compare Mobile Phone Deals - MoneySavingExpert MSE Broadband and TV: Broadband & TV Guides - MoneySavingExpert OFCOM: Advice for consumers - OfcomEnergy crisisfinancialMoney Worriesdebt managementcost of livingCost of living crisisdebtFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/debt-and-financial-worriesFri, 28 Aug 2026 12:55:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:bfc3f7e4-3ba9-4541-a6a2-0455c6fd7cf4Former MemberIf you are struggling to make ends meet at the moment, you aren’t alone. Millions of households are finding it hard to pay for everyday items due to rapidly increasing prices. If you are worried about debts, you can get free impartial advice to support with making the right financial decisions and as well as making affordable payment plans. Follow the links below to access financial advice, guidance and support: - National Debtline "Free, impartial debt advice and support. We’re a trusted debt advice charity offering free, independent support. If you’re struggling with debt, we’re here to help." - Citizens Advice "We Are Citizens Advice - the people’s champion. We give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward - whoever they are, and whatever their problem. We are here to help everyone who needs it with practical advice you can really trust. Our national charity and network of local charities offer confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free." - StepChange "We help you deal with debt, for as long as you need it. We help thousands of people become debt free every year. We know dealing with debt is different for everyone and taking the first step can be stressful. Our free debt advice and support service eases the pressure by giving help that is clear, straightforward and tailored to you." Keep your details secure from scammers, unfortunately during this time scams are on the rise, with many clone firms. Clone firm links often appear at the very top of a search engine results page, as scammers will pay money to grab your attention first. And now, scammers are impersonating debt advice charities such as StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice. When you click on a link through to a clone firm, all may seem well at first. It’s a professional-looking website. They're talking about debt solutions and freezing interest. They even have helpful interactive tools and glowing reviews of their service. Remember, real and trust worthy organisations will never: - Contact you unless you contact them first, - Message you via apps such as WhatsApp - Charge you for debt advice - Refer you to a third party for a repayment planEnergy crisisMoney Worriesdebt managementLoanscost of livingCost of living crisisdebtFinances