Wokingham residents who are struggling to buy food and pay bills amid the cost of living crisis can now apply for financial help.

The new Household Support Fund is being organised by the Hardship Alliance, a group of five local charities who will be working closely with Wokingham Borough Council.

It aims to help those who are struggling with children, with bills or household essentials.

To apply for food or bills help people can call the Citizens Advice Wokingham One Front Door on 0808 278 7958, apply on Citizens Advice Wokingham website, call Age UK Berkshire on (0118) 959 4242 or email Age UK Berkshire.

Additionally, children who get free school meals can get £15 per week, per eligible child, during the school holidays and half terms by applying through First Days Children's Charity website.

Chair of the Hardship Alliance and Manager at Wokingham United Charities Amy Garstand said: “This fund will support the vulnerable people in our area quickly and ensure we get them the help they need.

“Financial pressures continue to squeeze more members of our communities into problems they may not have faced before. These grants can provide a lifeline to those in need.”