York Talk Money Fortnight Offers Financial Support for Families in York from 6th to 17th July 2026

Families in York will have the chance to receive vital financial advice and support during the upcoming York Talk Money Fortnight, which runs from 6th to 17th July 2026. This initiative aims to help families navigate the challenges posed by the rising cost of living and find ways to make their money stretch further this summer.

Support Available

York Talk Money Fortnight is organised by the City of York Council in collaboration with various local partners, including Citizens Advice, Peasholme Charity, Age UK, York Energy Advice, and OCAY. The event provides a platform for families to access information and guidance on financial matters, ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them.

The focus of this year’s event is particularly on families, addressing key issues such as:

• Universal Credit: Changes to the national system now allow families with more than two children to claim an additional amount.
• Free School Lunches: Families currently benefitting from free school lunches are reminded to re-apply this summer due to updates in the system.
• Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF): This programme is designed for families whose children receive free school lunches, providing activities and meals during school holidays.
• Healthy Start Support: Pregnant individuals and parents of children under four may qualify for assistance with healthy food, milk, and vitamins.
• School Uniform Assistance: Guidance on managing the costs associated with secondary school uniforms will also be provided.

Drop-In Sessions

To further support families, two additional drop-in sessions will be held at family-friendly locations:

• Acomb WMC: 12 Front Street, Acomb YO24 3BZ on Wednesday 8th July from 10am to 2pm.
• York Community Stadium: Monks Cross, Huntington YO32 9AF on Sunday 12th July from 10.30am to 3pm.

Expert Advice

Cllr Bob Webb, the City of York Council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, expressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “We know that more families are feeling the impact from the continued rise in the cost of living. The message from York Talk Money Fortnight is simple: help and advice is available locally, and there’s lots that you can do to make your money go further this summer.”

He added, “From support if you’re struggling with energy bills and debt, help with school uniform or school lunches, and Healthy Start vouchers, our team of experts can help you find the right option for you. Pop along to our family-friendly advice sessions and chat to our friendly advisers.”

How York Talk Money Can Help

The York Talk Money initiative aims to help residents in several ways:

• Boost finances and ensure that families are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to.
• Provide guidance on spending wisely and only what is necessary.
• Offer benefits and financial advice tailored to individual circumstances.

Residents of all ages can also take advantage of regular York Talk Money sessions throughout the year. For more details on these ongoing support opportunities, families can visit their local community centre or check out the information available at www.york.gov.uk/talkmoney.

With the cost of living affecting many households, the York Talk Money Fortnight serves as a timely reminder that support is available. Whether it’s help with bills, school expenses, or general financial advice, the resources offered during this fortnight could make a real difference for families in York this summer.