Rutland County Council is urging people to seek help and support if they find themselves struggling this winter.

Winter is often a busy period for the Council as severe weather and other seasonal pressures lead to increased demand in areas like health and social care, homeless support, domestic abuse, child safeguarding and financial relief.

This winter brings the added complication of COVID-19, which means more people than ever before could find themselves turning to the Council for help and support. The Council has already seen an increase in referrals for mental health support this year, which could be attributed to stress and anxiety caused by COVID.

Coun Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "This is likely to be a really challenging winter for many of our residents. Some people may have been affected by job losses or a reduction in their household income and may find themselves in need of help for the first time.

"Others might think that support services are not available or running at a reduced capacity because of COVID-19. We want to reassure families and communities that we're here to help, with specialist officers and services standing by."

Rutland County Council is launching a special campaign over the winter months to let people know where to go for help or support. The Council has dedicated teams in place who can provide advice and assistance around:

Help with money and finances, including Council Tax

Housing and homelessness support

Safeguarding adults and children

Help with food

Support for carers and young carers

All of this information is available online at: https://www.rutland.gov.uk/takingcare.

Anyone without internet access can call the Council on: 01572 722 577 if they need help.

Coun Hemsley added: "It's really important that individuals and families understand it's OK to ask for help. We all need support at some time in our lives please don't hesitate to get in touch."