Household Support Fund doubled to help most vulnerable tackle cost of living

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A third of the funding will be ring-fenced to support families with children, while another third will be dedicated to pensioners

The government’s £500m Household Support Fund has been doubled to help pensioners and families with the rising cost of living.

The Household Support Fund was introduced in September 2021 to help vulnerable households across the country meet the cost of food, energy bills, housing costs and other essential items in the wake of the pandemic. Rochdale Borough Council was originally given £2.3 million to support local residents over winter 2021/22.

Funding is distributed by the council within the scope set out by Government ministers. Previous funding has supported households with food, clothing, energy and water costs, and this extension will ensure that this support continues through to the autumn.

A third of the funding will be ring-fenced to support families with children, while another third will be dedicated to pensioners.

Last month Rochdale Borough Council put £400,000 of extra support into the Household Support Fund so those suffering financial difficulties can access supermarket vouchers, fuel vouchers and other help.

The council has also put in place targeted support for low-income older people and support to help home energy efficiency as the cost of fuel rises. Additional funding has also been provided to Groundwork to provide fuel support and home energy advice to households.

The council is also working with partners across the borough, including the voluntary sector, community groups and charities, to ensure those most in need receive the targeted assistance.

For more information, including how to apply, please visit the council’s Household Support Fund page.