Money worries can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. There are friendly, confidential services ready to listen, offer advice, and help you take practical steps toward getting back in control. Whether you need help managing bills, dealing with debt, or applying for financial support, the organisations listed below can guide you every step of the way — free of charge and without judgement.
CAP offers personal, one-to-one debt support right from your home. They’ll help you organise your finances, contact creditors, and work toward becoming debt-free. They can also connect you to community and wellbeing support if you’d like.
Online debt advice and practical plans to get you back on track.
StepChange is the UK’s leading online debt advice charity. You can fill in your income and expenses securely, and they’ll guide you through the best route to manage or clear your debts.
Citizens Advice can help with debt management, benefit applications, and form-filling, including PIP and DLA. Local drop-in sessions are available if you prefer to speak face-to-face.
Local drop-ins:
📍 Featherstone Library – Tuesdays, 10am–12pm
📍 Castleford Queens Mill – Wednesdays, 10am–12pm
📍 St George’s Lupset – Tuesdays, 10am–12pm
Free local advice on budgeting, benefits, and debt management.
Cash Wise is a trusted service run by Wakefield Council, helping residents make the most of their money. They can support you with budgeting, rent or mortgage issues, saving on energy bills, and accessing other financial help.
Who can use it:
WDH or Vico Homes tenants
Families with children under 12
Any Wakefield district resident needing money advice
📞 01977 724651
📱 Text 07860 019867
🌐 www.getcashwise.co.uk
The Financial Welfare Team supports people and families who are experiencing financial crisis. Many referrals come through Cash Wise, but you can also contact them directly.
📞 0345 8 504 504
They may be able to help with benefits advice, emergency support and managing financial difficulties.
If you receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit but it does not cover your full rent, you may be able to apply for extra help through a Discretionary Housing Payment.
DHP may help with:
Rent shortfalls
Removal costs
Rent in advance
Funding is limited, so it’s important to apply as soon as possible if you think you may qualify.
If you are struggling to pay your Council Tax, it’s worth contacting the council to discuss your situation.
The team may be able to:
Reduce your Council Tax bill
Set up affordable repayment plans
Take arrears or financial hardship into account
There is also an online form available which can be easier than waiting on the phone.
The Household Support Fund helps residents struggling with the cost of living.
You may qualify if you:
Live in the Wakefield district
Are over 16
Are on a low income
Have less than £6,000 in savings
Are responsible for household bills
The fund can help with:
Food and essential household items
Toiletries and baby essentials
Gas and electricity
Mobile phone or broadband costs
Clothing and school uniforms
Essential white goods
Beds and bedding
Carpets (limited choice)
Support is usually provided through vouchers or direct support, rather than cash.
The application form is online, and although it can seem detailed, you can explain your situation in the comments section and the council will often follow up with a phone call.
School uniforms can be expensive, but there are two uniform banks serving Crofton where families can access good quality second-hand uniforms for free. To find out more you can go to their Facebook pages by clicking the buttons below. You can also go here to find out about Crofton Uniform Bank’s page here