
Advice, Advocacy & Cost of Living Support
Health & Wellbeing Services
At ShipShape, we provide practical, compassionate support to help people manage everyday challenges with confidence. Our Advice, Advocacy & Cost of Living Service brings together one‑to‑one guidance, financial support, digital access, and a friendly community space - all designed to help you feel more supported, informed, and empowered.
Whether you're struggling with the rising cost of living, need help navigating benefits or housing, or simply want a safe place to get advice and connect with others, we’re here for you. We know that navigating financial pressures, forms, and services can feel overwhelming - especially when you’re doing it alone.
Our service helps by offering:
Clear, trusted advice
A friendly, judgement‑free environment
Support tailored to your needs
A community where you feel seen, heard, and understood
We’re here to make things easier and to ensure you’re not facing challenges on your own. Below are the support options we offer:
1–2–1 Citizens Advice Support (Face to Face)
Our trained advisor provides confidential, one‑to‑one help with:
Benefits checks and applications
Housing issues and tenancy support
Employment rights and guidance
Debt and money worries
Form‑filling and navigating complex services
Advocacy to ensure your concerns are heard
This is ideal for anyone needing clear, reliable, personalised advice
Cost of Living Support Worker
We understand how difficult the rising cost of living can be. Our dedicated worker can help you with:
Accessing grants, food support, and emergency help
Signposting to local assistance and financial schemes
Budgeting and household money management
Understanding your options and rights
Reducing stress around financial pressures
We’re here to help you feel more stable, informed, and supported.
Benefits checks and applications
Housing issues and tenancy support
Employment rights and guidance
Debt and money worries
Form‑filling and navigating complex services
Advocacy to ensure your concerns are heard.
This is ideal for anyone needing clear, reliable, personalised advice.
Social Wellbeing Café
A warm, welcoming and relaxed drop‑in space offers on‑the‑spot advocacy and guidance, as well as free tea and coffee. We offer:
Free access to laptops, Wi‑Fi, and digital support
Help with job searches, online applications, and training
A supportive community where you can talk, connect, and build confidence
This service is open to any adult in our community who needs:
Support with benefits, housing, or financial issues
Help with the cost of living crisis
Advocacy for accessing services or having your voice heard
Support with forms, letters, and applications
Digital access for job searches, CV writing, or training
How to Join
A referral is made to ShipShape Community Hub by either your GP Practice, a professional service, or self-referral. You can also contact our Admin team to book in for any of the three services above. You need to book an appointmnet for our CAB service, and need no referal or booking for our Cost Of Living Service and Social Wellbeing Cafe you can turn up on the day.
☏ 0114 2500 222
You can fill in ShipShape's Community Referal and Support Form below and a member of the team will be in touch.

