As part of Stockport Boost, Stockport Council is reminding local people to check what they are entitled to in the battle to beat the recession.
There is a wide range of support available to Stockport residents, and the Council is keen to make people aware of what they have a right to.
The measures have been announced as part of the Stockport Boost programme – set up to help business and residents get through these difficult times – and the Council is urging people to get in touch to find out how to access the free advice and extra help.
The support includes:
Help with your rent and Council Tax
Many people don’t realise that you can claim Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit if you are employed or self-employed. Whether you live in a privately rented property; a council owned property or you are an owner occupier, you can still get help. These benefits are available to help anyone on a low income to pay their rent and Council Tax.
Family benefits such as free school meals and clothing grants
If you receive Income Support, Income-Based Job Seeker's Allowance or have an annual income (as assessed by HM Revenue & Customs) of less than £15,575 each year (but not Working Tax Credit) you will be eligible for free school meals and a clothing grant.
Discounts on leisure activities
The Leisure Key discount card can be used to obtain reduced prices for a variety of leisure activities, events and cultural attractions for Stockport residents on low income or in health promotion priority groups. From just £2.50, depending on your circumstances, you could pay much less for activities such as: sport, swimming, the theatre and Stockport County tickets.
Councillor Dave Goddard, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “These are tough times at the moment. And we want to make sure that local people get the help and support they are entitled to. I’d urge people to get in touch with the Council if they’re unsure about what they can and can’t claim as, at the moment, every penny counts.”
Councillor John Pantall, Executive Member for Finance at Stockport Council, added: “The Council is eager to support people during the current recession through the Stockport Boost programme. And by alerting residents to what they have a right to will go some way to easing financial problems.”
For full more information or to find out what you are entitled to call 0845 644 4303 or visit
www.stockport.gov.uk/stockportboost 
