The Government has made an extra £421 million available to help the most vulnerable across England. The funding is an extension of the Household Support Fund and has been allocated by the Department for Work and Pensions to councils in England, who will then use it to support those in need in their local area.
The funding given is for April 2024 to September 2024.
The Household Support Fund is there to help low income households, including families, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people. It provides immediate help for those who are struggling. This could include help with your energy, food and hygiene products and in some instances sustainable white goods.
For more information on support offered with the Cost of Living Crisis please also see Cost of living support: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and Help for Households - Get government cost of living support
Ways that assistance may be given
- Southend Emergency Fund has grants of up to £3,000 to give out to organisations working with pensioners, people with disabilities and people with caring responsibilities. For more information and an application form, visit the Southend Emergency Fund website
- Citizens Advice (CA) has received funds they can use to assist Southend residents with food and fuel costs. The CA will identify vulnerable people that may fit the remit of the Household Support Fund as they access the CA services. The CA will work with you to maximise your income and assist with any debt you may have. If you would like assistance from the CA please call on 01702 969696 to arrange an appointment
- Essential Living Fund - Additional funding has been given to the Essential Living Fund scheme, the local welfare provision grant scheme already in operation for Southend residents. The funding has been reserved for support with grocery and fuel costs and sustainable white goods in some instances. For more information on the assistance offered under the Essential Living Fund and on how to make an application visit our Essential Living Fund page