January blues don’t have to be financial as Council advice line remains open for business

As we head into 2026 the new year can mean the arrival of financial stress for families across Manchester.

Whether from the cost of hosting Christmas, to spending more money on heating the house, there are a host of reasons why people could be feeling the pinch harder than usual.

But that is why the Council is here with a dedicated advice line and support network for Mancunians who otherwise could slip into financial hardship.

Since the launch of the Council’s Cost of Living advice line we have helped more than 16,000 residents. Providing information on financial support or debt relief, access to foodbanks, or tackling issues relating to rent there is a dedicated place to get support.

When a person gets in touch with us by calling the hotline – freephone 0800 023 2692 – our dedicated members of staff will be able to refer them to a host of partner agencies and support services relevant to the issues they have encountered. Since March 2025 more 90% of people who contacted the Council were referred on to a service that could help them, given advice on how to access additional support or signposted to an external organisation.

Links to the range of support available can be found by following this link.

Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: “The first weeks of the new year can often become a financial pinch point for families. With the additional costs incurred over the festive period it can be a difficult time, which is why it’s more important than ever to let people know that help is here.

“Tens of thousands of people have already contacted the Council for help across a range of issues and we want all of our residents to know that if they are facing hardship they aren’t alone.

“Our message is that if you or a family member is in need of some additional support, reach out and don’t suffer in silence.”