“Chancellor must reinstate cost-of-living support axed by Conservatives” say Oldham Liberal Democrats.   

Oldham Liberal Democrat councillors have called on the government to reinstate the Household Support Fund, the funding that is made available through councils to support those worst affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

The fund was scrapped by the previous Conservative government in March, but new Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP has until the end of September, when cash for the scheme runs out, to announce a renewed scheme. 

Leader of Oldham Liberal Democrats councillor Howard Sykes MBE said, “No one should have to choose between heating and eating in modern Britain.  The Household Support Fund has been quite literally a lifeline for some people in Oldham Borough.”

“The Chancellor must reinstate the find so that local authorities like Oldham can get help to the people who need it most.” 

Pressure is building on the new Labour government to extend cost-of-living support ahead of what is expected to be another tough winter.  Earlier in August, the Local Government Association (LGA) said that six in 10 councils will be unable to provide extra support when funding runs out.  This news comes at a time when the Labour government is also planning substantial cuts to winter fuel support for pensioners. 

Councillor Sykes said, “The loss of the Household Support Fund would be catastrophic for the people most in need.  The government still has time to reverse this decision and if they do, councils will need clarity as to how much support we will be able to offer and for how long.”  

https://www.oldham.gov.uk/info/100001/help_with_benefits_and_money/2883/household_support_fund

LGA statement on the Household Support Fund (Aug 2024)
LGA: 6 in 10 councils will be unable to provide extra local welfare support when fund ends | Local Government Association