An online platform has been launched to help residents share advice and find support during the cost of living crisis.

Launched by Cheshire West and Chester Council, the 'Inspiring Change Together’ platform provides information, tips and guidance to support people facing financial hardship.

Links to the council’s cost of living support page and how to get help in an emergency are also included, as well as questions and answers on topics such as ‘where can I go to get free or affordable food?’.

Information includes news articles on food support, debt advice, mental health, as well as a mapping tool to help locate food banks and other resources in the borough.

Residents can also share stories through written content, images, videos, or blogs, of what they’re doing to combat the impact of the rising cost of living. This could include things like sharing an affordable recipe, tips on saving money or how to keep active and improve health and wellbeing.

Councillor Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future,  said: “We want this new platform to become an online community space, where people feel safe in sharing how they’re managing their daily lives through the rising cost of living.

“We also want to hear about what community groups and local businesses are doing to play their part in supporting their local communities. Stories that may inspire others to join a community group, volunteer at their local community centre or take that first step in reaching out for help.”

One resident who shared his story, Gus Cairns, said: "I feel it’s important for us all to share what we know and what experiences we’ve had that are helping through these challenging times.

"And the Inspiring Change Together platform is a great way of being able to do this. I would definitely urge others to share their stories, hints and tips that could help people in their local community and beyond.”

The platform can be found by clicking here.