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/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 crisisdebtFinanceshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/places-kids-eat-for-free-in-school-holidays-and-half-terms-2023Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:21:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:9b1f4976-57cb-4130-93f2-11cb060cff11RN Forum ModeratorCheck out this website where you can find details of places kids eat for free in school holidays and half terms. Follow this link to see where the current offers exist: Places Kids Eat for Freehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/serve-and-protect-cu---cost-of-living-and-financial-resilience-webinarsFri, 28 Aug 2026 12:20:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:60994e69-69f2-481b-8c70-27ca6bd59ff9RN Forum Moderator"At Serve and Protect, we understand the unique financial challenges faced by members of the armed forces community. Whether you’re on active duty, a reservist, veteran, MOD Civil Servant or part of a military family, we’re here to provide the financial support you deserve. With over 10 years of service and as the largest military credit union, we’re proud to stand by those who serve our country." Serve and Protect offer a variety of financial solutions suited to the armed forces community. On their website you will find links to webinars covering a variety of topics including those hosted by Serve and Protects Partnerships Coordinator, Jon Sykes, where he shares an insight into financial challenges and explores ways you can improve your financial resilience. FIND OUT MORE: Resources & Tools - including webinars Serve and Protect Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative which is owned by and run for its members. "At Serve and Protect, we’re more than just a financial institution – we’re a community built on shared values of service, dedication, and mutual support. With decades of experience, we’ve grown to become one of the largest credit unions in the UK, proudly supporting those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting others. We understand the unique financial needs of our members and are here to provide tailored solutions and unwavering support." You can learn more or join today at: www.serveandprotectcu.co.ukhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/help-for-households-512987174Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:15:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:9efedcd9-9812-4672-90b9-66763ebf6efeRN Forum ModeratorFind out about Cost of Living payments or how to lower your energy bills as well as support with mortgage payments and help with childcare and travel costs. Follow the links for more information England: Cost of living support: Overview - GOV.UK Help with the cost of living in 2026 - GOV.UK Cost of Living Help - Cost of Living Help Wales: Get help with the cost of living | GOV.WALES Scotland: Cost of Living Campaign Scotland Northern Ireland: Cost of Living | nidirecthttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/m/resources/3377Tue, 04 Jul 2023 15:51:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:2ac8213b-3e7b-455b-a519-51e382ebe42dRN FPS HQhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/m/resources/3376Tue, 04 Jul 2023 15:50:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:52939f92-0906-4a91-90b7-18a82ea9bdc0RN FPS HQhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/rnbt---easier-access-to-supportTue, 21 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:90e0d854-0779-4275-8425-7d3abc564357RN Forum ModeratorRNBT is already supporting more of the naval community in need due to the cost of living crisis – up 23% on last year, with awards up 35% in value. In January we rolled out a new way to apply for assistance on-line, using the Lightning Reach portal, which is also being used by The Royal British Legion and The RAF Benevolent Fund. This system is already proving its worth with many applications coming to us direct, allowing swift assessment, decision and then response to those who need our help. The Grants Team of Sam Allardyce, Tracy Mawer and Simon Brickell have handled more applications than at any time in the last four years, with Phil Shuttleworth and Chrissie Hughes following up to offer holistic support and guidance to our people. We are proud to be able to be there for those in our community who need our help. To learn more about Lightning Reach visit their websitehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/tax-free-childcare-accountFri, 14 Oct 2022 18:00:00 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? 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. Your eligibility depends on your household income, and your children's age, and you can still usually get Tax-Free Childcare if you are on sick leave or on shared parental, maternity, paternity or adoption leave. For more information and details on how to apply please visit GOV.UK Tax-Free Childcare . 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/dds---pull-up-a-chair-dinner-is-servedMon, 03 Oct 2022 06:42:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:496747d2-9b35-4ff7-8894-9c5052b4bde6RN FPS HQIf you are looking at going out for a meal, then don't forget to check out the discounts provided via the Defence Discount Service: DDS - Pull up a chair, dinner is served 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/council-tax-discounts-and-exemptionsFri, 30 Sep 2022 11:20:00 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 council tax rules, a discount of is applicable to single adults living in SFA/SSFA who pay CILOCT. To qualify for a discount, an occupant must be living alone, or solely with people who fall into one of the following categories: children under 18; people on apprentice schemes; 18 and 19-year-olds in full-time education; full-time college and university students (but excluding Service personnel in receipt of their normal salary); young people under 25 who get funding from the Skills Funding Agency or Young People’s Learning Agency; student nurses; foreign language assistants registered with the British Council; people with a severe mental disability. To qualify for the concession, a doctor’s certificate must be provided to a suitably qualified person to certify that the individual has a severe mental disability; live-in carers who look after someone who isn’t their partner, spouse or child; diplomats. For further information about CILOCT please read JSP 464 Volume 3 Part 1financialMoney Worriescost of livingdebthttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/greenwich-hospitalMon, 26 Sep 2022 17:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ffb9c99c-dfb2-49e4-8b65-8cb78522b7ecRN FPS HQGreenwich Hospital provide several grants which are listed here: Menu of Grant Making Educational Bursaries for serving and former serving RN, RM and RFA Personnel and their families Academic (first degree and Access to Degree Courses) through a number of university and tertiary study providers, directly and through the LDO. Serving Personnel Grants Awards to Ships, submarines and shore based units for a range of things to include family days, divisional activity, mental health away days, gym equipment, decommissioning support, battlefield tours and activities that support morale, health and wellbeing whilst alongside and deployed. Support to facilitate Equity, Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion within the Navy Support to the Wounded, Injured and Sick (WIS). Agile response to requests for support for compassionate and/or urgent RN FPS cases. Royal Hospital School Bursaries Bursaries to pupils of parents of serving and former serving RN/RM personnel. Grants to Individuals In partnership with other charities, almonisation of grants through SSAFA’s CMS2 grant database awarded to both serving and former serving personnel and their families in financial need, or to improve quality of life Support to commonwealth serving personnel requiring emergency travel support Responding to the needs of individuals who may not be eligible to be supported by other RN and RM charities or organisations. Grants to Organisations Grants to Charitable organisations supporting RN and RN serving and former serving personnel through mainstream, strategic, core and unrestricted funding. Strategic Grant making (grants given to others to distribute to support need) Working in partnership with other grant makers to jointly pilot and fund services Funding the design, delivery and evaluation of services in the sector to address identified need Enabling the building of facilities and homes that support RN and RM individuals and families Quick responder to emerging and emergency sector needs In-kind support providing interim accommodation for former RN/RM people in need. Grants to the Sea Cadets Supporting young people to understand and engage with marine life to encourage future members of the RN and RM seafaring communities Annual 1st Sea Lord Award Ceremonies Grants to RN Cadet Units to support cadet activities Awards to inner city schools engaging in cadet activities Further information can be found at www.grenhosp.org.ukbursarieshospitalcharitygreenwichcost of livinggrantshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/the-royal-navy-officers-charitySun, 25 Sep 2022 17:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:f6e98d35-38eb-479f-b88a-a7dbac7320cfRN FPS HQProviding Support for Serving Officers and their Families The Royal Navy Officers’ Charity (RNOC) assists all those across the Royal Navy Officer family who need financial support, practical advice or signposting. Founded in 1739 the Charity supports a diverse range of beneficiaries and in 2021 awarded individual grants totalling in excess of £500k. The RNOC supports serving and retired RN, RM, QARNNS, and former WRNS officers and their families. The Charity is there in challenging times such as illness, the loss of a parent or marriage breakdown, all of which can have a huge impact. The RNOC will help with education costs, counselling and other practical support, and offer advice about navigating potential sources of help. Grants are available to assist with: Medical Expenses (if treatment is not available on the NHS, extreme wait time), School and Education Fees, Assistance with transition and retraining, White and Brown goods replacement, Rent Deposits and initial rent, Removals, Debt, Home repairs and adaptations, Support grants to assist with everyday living costs. 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. Membership of ARNO brings access to a wide range of tangible benefits. Recent research shows that the average family can save well over £1000 a year. Savings are available at most high street supermarkets with a vast range of other outlets many of which are not included with other Service Discount Schemes. In addition ARNO offers access to very competitive prices for motor breakdown cover. For more details go to www.arno.org.uk How to Apply We have a simple process in place to make sure you get the advice and assistance you require quickly and easily. Call us on 0207 402 5231 or email rnoc@arno.org.uk and let us know what the problem is. A case worker from RN FPS, SSAFA or the RBL will collect and coordinate the necessary information and complete an application form on your behalf. Whichever organisation is helping with your application they will process the standard form and forward to the RNOC. The Charity’s Benevolence Committee will make a decision and you will know the outcome as soon as possible (usually in under a week). For further information of the RNOC’s work and impact see www.rnoc.org.ukRNOCOfficerscharityARNORoyal Navycost of livinggrantshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/cost-of-living/b/announcements/posts/aggie-s-pastoral-supportSat, 24 Sep 2022 17:00:00 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 living