Coronavirus: Belfast Community Support

Advice and support

• Financial assistance

  I am struggling to afford food and utilities – can I get any financial assistance?

  • COVID-19 grant payment - the Department for Communities (DfC) has introduced a short-term financial support package for COVID-19 living expenses. If you, or a member of your immediate family, has been affected by COVID-19, you can apply for the COVID-19 grant payment. The grant is payable for short-term living expenses if you have a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, or you are in self-isolation. You must meet specific eligibility criteria in order to receive the grant. You can contact the finance support service on Freephone 0800 587 2750 or you can find more information and make an application on the nidirect website (link opens in new window).
  • Income Related Benefits are available dependent on income levels, health status and National Insurance contributions. You can find out more at the links below:
    • claim Universal Credit online (link opens in new window)
    • claim new style Employment and Support Allowance (link opens in new window)
    • claim new style Jobseekers Allowance (link opens in new window)
  • Make the Call. An advisor will provide a full assessment of all income and benefits to make sure you are getting all the benefits, services and support you are entitled to. Contact Freephone: 0800 2321271 or visit nidirect - Make the Call (link opens in new window)

  If you still need assistance, the COVID-19 Community Helpline will connect you to a wide range of support, including assistance with access to food, that is available locally. Freephone 0808 802 0020, text ACTION to 81025 or email covid19@adviceni.net

• Accessing prescriptions

  Is there help available to get my prescription delivered?

  • Help from family and friends – would a member of your family, or a friend, be able to help you by collecting your prescription for you?
  • Pharmacy delivery services -  many chemists and pharmacies are offering their own delivery service.  You could check if any in your area are offering this service.
  • Ordering your prescription - your GP should ask which pharmacy you would like to collect your prescription from at the time of ordering – they may also be able to advise which local pharmacies are offering a delivery service.  You should also be able to nominate one that you know delivers if you have found out in advance.
• Mental health and wellbeing

  I am worried and anxious – can I get help or talk to someone?

  • The CovidWellbeingNI online hub (link opens in new window) is a website that offers a range of information, self-help guides and ways to get help to support your mental health and wellbeing during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • You can also visit the AdviceNI website (link opens in new window) for more information about support and services available to you.
  • If you feel you still need help or advice, please contact your GP.