As the song says, sometimes, money’s too tight to mention. Financial worries can feel like a heavy weight, and for many of us, the past few years have been particularly tough. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but it’s helpful to remember that we’re not alone. A lot of people are living with financial anxiety, and it’s a very real problem.
As one of our Experts by Experience put it, “Unfortunately, struggling is where we are. It can bring shame for some people to talk about and admit, ‘I’m struggling financially,’ but it can happen to anyone for any reason at any time.”
Financial challenges often go hand in hand with poor mental health. When you’re constantly worrying about money, it can impact your ability to cope, and a long-term physical or mental health condition can lead to financial difficulties. It’s a vicious circle, and it can feel impossible to escape.
The good news is that there are many organisations in Somerset ready to offer a helping hand and a listening ear—support is out there. Whether you need practical help with groceries, expert advice on benefits and debt, or a friendly ear to talk to, the organisations below are ready to help.
Citizens Advice Somerset: As a key member of the Open Mental Health alliance, Citizens Advice Somerset is the best place to start. They offer free, confidential, and impartial advice on a wide range of issues, including benefits, debt, and employment. Their services are designed to help us make our way through the sometimes-complex benefit system and ensure we are getting all the support we’re entitled to.
Getting Practical Help
Sometimes, the most immediate need is for basic essentials. Food banks, community pantries and local food initiatives can provide free or more affordable food, helping to stretch our budget further.
The Local Pantry Network: These pantries, supported by Somerset Council and Community Action Groups Somerset, sell surplus food at a low cost to members. It’s a great way to access quality groceries while reducing food waste. Check the websites for local pantries in your area, including Bridgwater, Minehead, and Yeovil.
Happy Healthy Holidays (SASP): This programme from OMH member Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership offers nutritious food and fun activities during school holidays for children who receive free school meals, taking some of the financial pressure off families.
Reconnect: A free Somerset service from OMH partner Rethink Mental Illness that helps people with dementia and memory problems manage their paperwork, finances, and ensure they are receiving the correct benefits.
Somerset Community Foundation: This organisation offers grants and funding to individuals facing barriers to education, employment, or participating in activities.
Managing Debt and Finances
If you’re dealing with debt or need help understanding your benefits, a number of organisations, in addition to Somerset Citizens Advice, provide expert advice. Don’t feel ashamed to reach out—these services are here to help you regain control.
Mind: The national mental health charity, which has a strong local presence in Somerset, offers excellent resources on money and mental health on its website. They provide guidance on claiming benefits and managing debt. They also have a Welfare benefits line available from 9 am to 5 pm, weekdays, on 0300 222 5782
Turn2us: A national charity that helps you access benefits and grants. Their website features a free benefits calculator to check what you’re entitled to.
National Debtline, PayPlan, and StepChange: These are free, national services that provide confidential and independent advice on how to manage and resolve debt issues. They can help you create a budget and find a solution that works for you.
Rethink Mental Illness: The national Advice Service provides practical guidance on money and benefits for adults with mental illness. A freephone helpline is available on 0808 801 0525
Specific Support and Community Connections
Sometimes, finding the right support is about more than just money—it’s about finding a community that understands.
Farming Community Network (FCN): Provides confidential support to farmers and farming families dealing with financial and personal difficulties.
Connect Somerset / Help4All: This is an online directory that can connect you to a wide range of local support services, including financial advice and community hubs.
Somerset Carers from Thrive: If you are caring for someone with a health condition, OMH partner Thrive can offer advice on services and support that may help with financial management.
Navigate: A Somerset-based charity dedicated to ending financial hardship by building confidence and skills for long-term money management.
Remember, you don’t have to face financial struggles alone. Reaching out to one of these organisations is a positive step toward taking back control. And if you need support with your mental health, OMH is here for you. We offer support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please get in touch with our team at Mindline Somerset, locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
Mindline Live Web Chat is available every day from 8 pm to 11 pm on our website, or you can send us a message.
Stay Well in 2025
To help address the mental health needs we all have, we’ve updated our Wellbeing Kit with tips and resources from across the OMH alliance.
You’ll find helpful advice designed to address seasonal pressures. This includes tips for managing anxiety around social events, resources for families and young people and guidance on maintaining healthy routines
Whether you’re looking for a small boost or more in-depth support, we invite you to explore the full Stay Well in 2025 kit on our website.
