More families in Lincolnshire face hardship as cost of living rises - Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire offers help to those struggling

With nearly one-in-four families with children facing financial hardship, and “awful April” bill increases, more residents across Lincolnshire are expected to seek help this year.

According to Department for Work and Pensions figures released recently, 18.7% of children in South Kesteven were living in relative low-income families in 2023/24, up from 18.4% the year before. Relative low income is defined as any family claiming child benefit and at least one other household benefit.

For the rest of Lincolnshire, the figures included Lincoln (29.5%), West Lindsey (22.9%), East Lindsey (30.2%), Boston (31.3%), South Holland (24.2%) and North Kesteven (16.3%).

Nationally, the authority with the highest proportion was Pendle (NW England) at 44.6%, while the authority with the lowest proportion was Elmbridge (SE England) at 6.4%.

But from this month (April 2025), there has been a widespread increase in household costs with energy bills

For instance:

- Energy bills have risen by 6.4% due to an increase in Ofgem’s price cap.

- Water bills have increased by an average of £123 per year.

- Most councils in England are raising council tax bills by 4.99%. In South Kesteven, residents face a 4.99% rise for Lincolnshire County Council, a 4.95% rise for Lincolnshire Police and a 2.8% rise for South Kesteven on top of town council bills.

- Other costs rising include broadband, phone bills, TV licences, and car tax.

Analysts predict these increases could add £49.45 to the average household's monthly spending on essentials.

Experts advise households to review their bills, switch providers where possible, and go back to budgeting basics.

Households are urged to submit accurate meter readings before the energy price increase comes into effect.

Sean Betts, from Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire said the figures were an “eye opening statistic”.

About 57% of the clients helped by Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire are already living with a negative budget, where expenses exceed income.

“The impending bill rises will make an already extremely challenging time more difficult for everyone, but especially the most vulnerable within our communities,” said Sean.

Not only that, but fuel debt ranks as the second highest debt issue for South Kesteven residents, with many struggling to pay heating bills.

Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire provides essential services like money advice, income maximisation, budgeting, and debt management.

“If you or your family are struggling, Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire are here to help you find a way forward with the problems you face,” said Sean.

“We offer money advice and can provide information about income maximisation (making sure you are receiving the support you may be eligible for,) budgeting and dealing with debt.”

They have helped clients secure over £60,000 in income through support with energy-related issues.

In addition to their main services, advisers are available at community settings like Grantham Foodbank, Market Deeping, and Wake House in Bourne.

These locations offer face-to-face advice for those facing barriers to accessing services.

For support, residents can call Adviceline on 0808 278 7996 for advice on how to move forward with their financial difficulties.