RESIDENTS needing help as the cost of living crisis continues can get free advice from top experts at the recently-opened Middlewich Hub.

The hub offers one-to-one advice on issues such as benefits, pensions, disability, debt-management and social prescribing.

Middlewich councillor Carol Bulman said: “Headlines such as ‘winter crisis’ and ‘cost of living crisis’ are everywhere, reflecting the real concerns confronting people trying to work out what inflation is going to mean to them in the coming months.

“For many people it means higher bills and a bleak outlook for Christmas.

"Older residents trying to make a pension stretch, parents with an increased mortgage, young adults with higher credit debt trying to find their way back into employment or training - all are struggling in the current financial climate.

"Being well-informed at such a time can make all the difference.”

She said that is where the Middlewich Hub comes in.

“The advice is free and from the top people in their field,” said Cllr Bulman.

“It is good to hear about the positive solutions provided to hub visitors.

“The hub operates as a ‘drop in’ at the library and at the Methodist church on Booth Lane, although appointments can be made in advance by contacting Lucie Ferneyhough, Cheshire East’s community development officer.”

Calls over Zoom or via phone are also possible if people prefer greater privacy or an evening conversation.

Experts on hand include those from the DWP and the benefits team for financial matters and for people wanting to get back into work, there’s a range of help from Journey First, Parents First, Springboard Cheshire and New Leaf.

The health and wellbeing team is also on hand with options.

The hub will be open at 9.15am on Wednesday, October 12 at the Methodist Church on Booth Lane and from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Middlewich Library on Tuesday, November 1.

Lucie Ferneyhough can be contacted by phone on 07929 717909 or via email at lucie.ferneyhough@cheshireeast.gov.uk