A free event for Hounslow residents to receive advice and support tailored to their cost of living challenges takes place this week.

The 'Cost of Living' marketplace on Wednesday, September 14, is the first such event organised by Hounslow Council. Free for borough residents to attend, it is part of Hounslow's 'Community Solutions' strategy which works to identify and solve problems local people are facing before they turn into crises.

A dozen volunteer and community groups will be on hand to offer "the kind of tailored support that prevents residents from reaching crisis point in the testing months ahead," said Hounslow Council's cabinet member for communities and equalities, Shivraj Grewal.

Hounslow FoodBox, Citizens Advice, energy efficiency experts Green Doctors and debt advice charity Crosslight are among the organisations who along with key services within the Council will be in attendance.

Aiman Elal, from Citizens Advice Hounslow, commented: "We have long supported the Community Solutions ethos because it makes our client journey easier, whether that's within Hounslow Council or externally, pinpointing the right support. This event brings that process to life and people can be referred on the spot if necessary."

Commenting on the growing list of partners, Cllr Grewal said: "It's important to bring together key partners from around the borough and our own services within the Council with one aim; to offer advice and guidance to our residents around issues connected with the cost of living.  

"The Cost of Living Marketplace will also be taken out to local venues around the borough in the next few months so watch this space."

Hounslow Cost of Living Marketplace

Hounslow House, ground floor

TW3 3EB

Wednesday, September 14

From 9.30am to 1pm

Full list of organisations who will be in attendance

Age UK - Information tailored to older people, their families and carers

Brentford FC Community Trust - Local charity

Citizens Advice - Free, confidential, impartial advice on welfare benefits, debt, housing, employment, consumer, relationship & family issues, immigration and other topics.

Crosslight - debt advice charity

Ealing and Hounslow Community Volunteering Service - training, volunteering support and development, safeguarding development, group development and funding advice

Golden Opportunity Skills and Development - Services to meet the needs of people from socially disadvantaged parts of the community

Green Doctors - Energy efficiency experts offering advice on energy saving, energy bills and heating systems

Hounslow FoodBox - emergency food, support and advice to people living in Hounslow

Job Centre Plus - Jobs and benefits support

Mind - Mental health and wellness support

One You - Physical and mental health advice

She Wise - Women's skills and empowerment charity