If you need advice and support about money, you can apply through a network of agencies we have partnered with. 

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice BCP has lots of advice about budgeting, benefits and funds. Their Community Advice Vehicle travels around our area regularly to offer advice in person.

Be alert for scams

Friends Against Scams has a guide on protecting yourself from cost of living scams, including fake loans and impersonation scams.

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has warned that scammers are pretending to be Ofgem, advising people to switch energy providers and asking for financial details.

If anyone calls at your home or telephones you about energy grants and you were not expecting the call, they are not working for or with BCP Council. We will never send official representatives to your property uninvited, or cold call you to encourage joining any scheme. This is also true for the government's Green Homes Grant scheme.

To enquire about energy grants contact: Ridgewater Energy on 01202 612726 or email info@ridgewaterenergy.co.uk. You can also look at our energy and utility bills page.

Trading Standards South West has a student scams toolkit to advise students about potential scams targeting young people living away from home for the first time.

Loan sharks

Loan sharks are lenders not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), making any lending they provide illegal. Stop Loan Sharks has information on spotting loan sharks and how to report them.

Building works and repairs

If you're planning building works or repairs, be cautious of unsolicited offers. What seems like a good deal can end up costing more if the work is not completed properly.

• take time to research the business and look for trusted reviews and references.
• never pay the whole amount in advance
• consider using a business pre-vetted by Trading Standards or another reputable trader approval scheme