Find support

Winter can be a difficult time, with colder weather, darker days and the added pressures that Christmas and New Year can bring. If you or someone you know needs a little extra support, help is available.

Stay well and keep living independently

Winter weather can make it more difficult to stay safe, well and maintain your independence. Find advice on preventing falls and keeping warm and well.

There is also lots of equipment and technology available to help you live independently at home and get out and about. If you need more support there are different options for care, whether you're eligible for support or would like to arrange your own care. Find out more about support to live at home.

Mental health

Mental health is another aspect of our overall wellbeing and it's very common to need support at some point in our lives – find out more about the help available here.

Support for carers

If you care for someone aged 18 or over, you can find guidance on benefits, putting together a support plan and more on our carers webpage. You may also be eligible for support provided by The Lancashire Carers Service.

Help with the cost of living

If you’re struggling to pay the bills our Welfare Rights Service can check you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to, and advise on managing your household costs. You may also be eligible for help with energy bills, or free improvements to your heating or insulation, particularly if you’re vulnerable to the cold.

Our Cost of living support webpage gathers lots of advice in one place, including where to get support with food, community spaces where you can spend time with others, and help with childcare.

Stay connected at our libraries and family hubs

You can visit any library for a free brew and to keep warm throughout the winter. Your local library also offers lots of interesting events and opportunities to meet others. Staff can also help you stay connected with help to get online and improve your digital skills.

You can find support for you and your family at your local Family Hub. These venues offer lots of drop-in sessions, groups and activities, and work with partners such as the NHS and schools to find you the help you need, without having to repeat yourself to lots of different people.

Childcare

All parents with primary school-aged children can access childcare before and after school, with support typically available from 8am to 6pm during term time. You may be eligible for tax-free childcare or universal credit childcare to help with the cost.

For pre-school children, funded places are available for working parents with children aged nine months to four years at local nurseries, childminders, or pre-schools.

Find out more about paying for childcare.