Aimed at aiding those grappling with the cost of living, councils across the South West are to receive a share of £37.5 million.
This funding, part of a substantial extension to the Household Support Fund, seeks to alleviate the financial pressures on the region’s most vulnerable residents by assisting with the costs of essentials such as food, energy bills, and emergency needs, including new boilers.
A Continuing Commitment
The allocation raises the total investment in the South West through the Household Support Fund to £225.4 million since its inception in October 2021. This move is part of a wider £2.5 billion initiative launched to support individuals and families facing economic hardships, especially in the wake of increasing living costs. Overall, the support forms a segment of a landmark £108 billion package, which, according to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), has been pivotal in preventing 1.3 million people across Europe from slipping into poverty.
Economic Recovery and Support Measures
The funding extension arrives at a pivotal moment as the economy begins to show signs of recovery. With inflation rates dropping significantly, the government has introduced several measures to further ease the financial burden on its citizens. These include tax cuts averaging £900 for 29 million workers and a substantial increase in the National Living Wage. Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride highlighted the government’s efforts in protecting vulnerable populations from the brunt of living cost pressures while fostering economic growth by incentivising work, reducing taxes, and implementing wage increases.
Comprehensive Support Strategy
Beyond direct financial aid, the government is launching several initiatives to support employment among the long-term unemployed, sick, and disabled. The £2.5 billion Back to Work scheme aims to remove employment barriers, complemented by the Chance to Work Guarantee, designed to offer work trials without risking benefit entitlements.
The funding extension to the Household Support Fund is part of a broader £421 million provision for local authorities in England, with an additional £79 million directed to devolved administrations through the Barnett Formula.
Wide-Ranging Benefits
Today also marks the beginning of several other government measures aimed at improving the financial wellbeing of millions. These include an increase in the National Living Wage to £11.44 an hour for those aged 21 and over, an uplift in the Local Housing Allowance benefitting 1.6 million households, 15 hours of free childcare for eligible working parents, and a new, lower Energy Price Cap resulting in reduced energy bills.
Alongside the Household Support Fund, the government promotes the Help for Households campaign, offering a wide array of support and information ranging from childcare costs assistance to mental health advice.
For residents in the South West and beyond, the comprehensive range of government support available underscores a concerted effort to mitigate the impact of living costs, provide economic stability, and encourage workforce participation amidst a gradually recovering economy.
To find out what support you may be eligible for go to Help for Households – Get government cost of living support.
