The government has announced that the Household Support Fund (HSF) will be extended from:
- October 2024, to
- 31 March 2025
A further £421 million has been made available to:
- County Councils
- Unitary Authorities
- Metropolitan Councils
- London Boroughs
The aim is to support those most in need to help with both:
- global inflationary challenges
- the rising cost of living
Local authorities (LAs) can choose how this funding is used. This must be within the scope set out in the:
- accompanying grant determination
- guidance issued
The Funds primary objective should be used to provide crisis support to those most in need. This covers the cost of essentials such as:
- food
- energy bills
- water bills
Whilst the primary objectives should be the focus, Authorities are encouraged to use The Fund to provide support that has a long-term sustainable impact. For example household items which would reduce bills in the long-term.
How the funding will be used in Southend
Southend Emergency Fund
Funding will be given to Southend Emergency Fund to offer grants of up to £3,000 to organisations working with:
- pensioners
- people with disabilities
- people with caring responsibilities
For more information and an application form, visit the Southend Emergency Fund website.
Citizens Advice (CA)
Funding will be given to Citizens Advice to help Southend residents with food and fuel costs.
They also continue to:
- identify vulnerable people that may fit the remit of the Household Support Fund as they access their services
- work with people to maximise their income and help with any debt people may have
If you would like help from the CA you can call on 01702 969696 to arrange an appointment.
Essential Living Fund
Extra funding has been given to the Essential Living Fund scheme.
This is the Local Welfare Provision Grant scheme which was already in operation for Southend residents.
Extra funding from the Household Support Fund has been put aside to support pensioners over the winter months.
It will be used to help with:
- food costs
- fuel costs
This in response to the Government announcement of the removal of Winter Fuel Payments for pensioners.
Work already being done to identify pensioners who could be entitled to Pension Credit, an extra income.
Information and support for pensioners is also now available on our website.
Visit our Essential Living Fund page for more information on:
- the help offered
- how to make an application
Further Information
For more information on support available with the cost of living crisis visit: