Offers, support and discounts for care workers
Discount cards
The Blue Sky Social Care Card is an officially verified ID card inclusive of the entire social care sector. It gives members access to discounts online and on the high street. The card and one year's membership costs £5.
The Blue Light Card is a discount service for people working in the NHS, emergency services, social care sector and armed forces. It provides members with discounts online and on the high street. It costs £4.99 for two years.
Here to help you
The Here2Help pages on the Council website have information to help you with the cost of living as well as a range of services to keep you physically and mentally well.
As part of Here2Help, to help you with energy and fuel, we have teamed up with local energy experts to help you reduce your energy bills and make your home warmer and more energy efficient.
Here2Help also has information about food support and discounts.
Childcare support
The Solihull HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme provides a range of activities and a nutritious meal, for children in receipt of benefits-related free school meals during school holidays. These are free of charge to the parent/carer of eligible children with a maximum number of sessions that can be booked per holiday period.
You can sign up to the HAF newsletter for parents and carers to ensure you are aware of updates and useful information about the programme.
The government's Childcare Choices website has information to help you juggle family life, whether you have toddlers or teenagers.
Financial support and advice
MoneyHelper provides free, impartial guidance on topics including benefits, everyday money, family and care. The website is backed by the government.
It also has a section on where to get free debt advice. Use their debt advice locator to find support near you.
Support for people receiving benefits or on low income
Millions of people every year receive financial support from the government in the form of benefits, but if you’re finding it hard to get by, there may be other sources of help available.
Here’s a round-up of help you might be able to claim if you receive benefits or are on a low income.
Support at work
If you have a disability, physical or mental health condition that makes it hard for you to do your job, you can talk to your employer about changes they must make in your workplace or get extra help from the government's Access to Work scheme.
The National Association of Care & Support Workers (NACAS) is an independent social care stakeholder and professional body that advocates and provides a platform for care and support workers to have a voice in the sector. It fosters the growth and well-being of care and support workers, and offers support to help its members manage stress, learn new skills and advance their careers.