As the festive season approaches, it can be an incredibly challenging time for many who are struggling financially. Organisations have a vital role to play in supporting their customers during difficult times.

Here are five ways to make a real difference to your customers this Christmas.

1. Access to affordable essentials
   The Bread and Butter Thing provides mobile food clubs to give access to nutritious and affordable food in the heart of communities starved of money, food, and resources. This initiative provides essential produce for family eating—fresh fruit and veg, fridge favourites, and cupboard staples. They have recently opened a range of new hubs in Staffordshire to ensure more people can benefit from their support.

2. Energy arrears support
   Energy bills are becoming more and more of a significant concern throughout the colder months. British Gas Energy Trust offers two different grant schemes to support people with arrears. The ‘British Gas Energy Support Fund’ helps British Gas customers and ‘The Individuals and Families Fund’ that helps both British gas customers and noncustomers facing fuel poverty.

3. Navigating finances
   Sometimes customers require guidance on navigating their finances. Ask Bill provides access to their trusted partners’ Better off Calculator, which is a user-friendly tool which provides individuals with information on the support and benefits they are eligible for. Your customers can also see how changes in their household budget can affect their income. 

4. Provide tailored support solutions
   Providing tailored support solutions can help you provide for the needs of your customers. At Auriga Services we specialise in support solutions that make a difference. Whether it’s grant scheme management, providing crisis support, or debt and welfare advice, we’re here to help. By partnering with Auriga, you can offer a tailored approach that directly addresses the needs of your customer base. 

5. Supporting wellbeing and mental health
   Christmas can be incredibly stressful with the added financial pressures, especially to those individuals who are already struggling. Share support from mental health organisations such as, Mind, and signposting resources with your customers so they know what services they can access and where from.

For many, the festive season brings a lot of excitement and happiness, but for others, it can increase worry and hardship. You can help ease the burden for your customers and remind them that they are not alone. Small actions can make a huge difference to somebody facing life’s challenges.

Ready to make a difference? Find out more about how we partner with organisations to provide support services and help your customers together.