Government has once again provided councils with funding to help tackle the Cost of Living crisis, by way of the Household Support Fund. This is the fourth round of the grant, and is provided specifically to allow Local Authorities to help low-income households experiencing financial hardship.
Previously awarded in six month tranches, this time funding has been agreed for 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. This allows the council to better weight funding at times of the year that residents struggle the most. The funding proposal as agreed provides the following support:
- Food vouchers for children and young people eligible for free school meals (£15 for the spring holiday, £60 for the summer holiday and £40 per child for the Christmas and Easter holidays);
- Payment of £60 to carers in receipt of Council Tax Reduction; disabled residents in receipt of Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit claimants not in receipt of Council Tax Reduction to help with fuel costs;
- Funding to support meals for children via the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) scheme;
- Investment in supermarket vouchers for residents in emergency need of food via the Helpline;
- Investment in Local Welfare Provision to help with replacement white goods, and winter warm packs;
- Homelessness support to prevent threat of eviction and allow families to move on from homelessness accommodation;
Everyone who is eligible for a voucher, or payment, will receive them automatically. There is no need to apply.
The Household Support Fund also provides help such as fuel vouchers and energy-efficient items through our Warm Homes Team. Residents should call 0800 019 1084 or email: warmhomes@oldham.gov.uk to access this support.
The council are also working with Action Together and other voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise partners to provide support in areas such as:
- warm clothing and bedding, baby items, food, plus ad hoc help with energy costs;
- support for those who are struggling but aren’t eligible for benefits including those with no recourse to public funds;
- essential items for the elderly including food, help with household bills and energy;
- additional funding for Age UK to support older people in emergency need
Please see We Can Help page where residents can get in touch with the Helpline for general emergency help, advice and support on 0161 770 7007.