This blog was kindly written by Financial Wellbeing Officer Sandra Berry.
‘Carer Money Matters means supporting unpaid carers across Dorset with financial wellbeing such as entitlement to benefits, accessing grants, budgeting and energy advice. It means someone being there to listen, offer support, advice and guidance with issues such as employment, debt, energy advice and money worries.
We offer support with debt management advice, breaks and respite for carers and local support group in the area. We are also able to apply for grants towards carers breaks, white goods, boiler care and counselling.
My background is in supporting people with paying their mortgage and helping them with banking and savings. I helped people with budgeting and looking to see if they could increase their income to be able to manage their bills. I am really passionate about saving people money and also making them money such as renting out a spare room, selling unwanted items or checking if they are entitled to any financial support from the government with benefits.
When helping people to save money I look at switching energy, broadband and insurance providers, cutting back on luxury spending or smoking and alcohol. I love seeing the difference it can make when people review their spending and find out they are entitled to benefits or reductions on their council tax. Also switching providers to save money on their mobile phones, television, utilities, broadband and insurances.
I love this job as every day is so varied and we get to go out and meet people across the county and support carers in so many different areas. Making a difference to people is so rewarding and it’s lovely to get great feedback from our carers!’
Come and say hello at our drop-in style Financial Wellness Hubs!
