NewstrAid has confirmed its Cost of Living Crisis Fund will continue into 2024, and outlined the support it can provide retailers in the face of flooding and plummeting temperatures. The Cost of Living Crisis Fund aims to support those working in the newstrade who are struggling to cover the cost of their household bills over the winter months.

“We know when the weather is as cold as it has been recently this can be a real pinch point for anyone worrying about staying warm and covering the cost of their bills,” says Katie Babooram, welfare manager at NewstrAid.

“That is why we are continuing to offer support through our Cost of Living Crisis Fund which was launched back in 2022.”

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In addition, NewstrAid has highlighted other support it’s able to offer retailers as many parts of the country recover from floods and endure freezing temperatures.

“For flood victims this includes advice and signposting to help in your local area as well as one-off financial support should you have to move into temporary accommodation, or replace damaged essential items such as white goods,” Babooram explains.

“Having your possessions or business ruined by adverse weather can seriously affect your mental health. Our wellbeing helpline is available 24/7 with qualified counsellors ready to chat and help you through a number of wellbeing related issues. Call free on 0808 196 2016.”

While NewstrAid cannot help with business related costs such as replacing stock and paying staff wages, it may be able to assist if a retailer is facing financial hardship as a result of business closure. The charity has previously awarded financial support to help retailers with living costs and mortgage payments while their stores have been closed due to flooding. NewstrAid has also provided retailers with support paying utility bills over the winter.

NewstrAid is a charity which provides welfare and hardship support for people currently or previously employed in the selling and distribution of newspapers and magazines in the UK. This includes their immediate family and dependants who are in need or in distress.

Read more cost-of-living crisis news and advice for retailers