Charity organises drop-in events for Newcastle families as cost of living crisis deepens

Newcastle families struggling with the cost of living crisis are being encouraged to attend a series of events for support.

Charity Mental Health Concern has organised a number of drop-in events for people to access free support and advice.

There will be a range of stalls offering guidance on council schemes, benefits and finances, while there will be mental health support.

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The East End Development Trust, which is a branch of the charity, has organised an event at the Walker Activity Dome on Thursday between 1pm and 4pm.

Daniel Hamilton, community development worker, said: "The crisis is already impacting the population of the East End of Newcastle as benefit and wage increases are outstripped by energy prices and the higher cost of everyday items.

"We have seen an increase in the number of people coming to us for support.

"At the event people will be able to get advice on a range of things including finances, online library services, the Citizens Advice will be there too. As it is half term there will be soft play and crafts for children."

Daniel encouraged anyone who is worrying about how they will cope in the coming weeks and months to come to an event.

He said: "What you need to do is make sense of what you are thinking and experiencing. Trying to tackle everything at once might cause distress, come to an event and get some advice.

"It is about taking it one step at a time."

Events are also planned in Fenham, Benwell, Newbiggin and Fawdon over the coming weeks. To find out more details visit here.

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