The UK Government’s Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) recently announced an extension of the Household Support Fund (HSF) until 31 March 2025.
The fund will offer critical support and advice for struggling households across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) throughout the winter period, who are finding it difficult to pay for household essentials including food and energy.
Local councils are responsible for administering the fund in their area, with BCP Council being allocated £2.65 million of the £421 million national fund.
Councillor Mike Cox, Deputy Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance, said: “I strongly support the government’s decision to extend the HSF this winter, which has previously offered struggling households a lifeline during the cost of living crisis.”
“I encourage all residents who are struggling to pay for bills to check if they qualify for HSF support as soon as possible, and to consider seeking practical assistance from council and partner professionals.”
The fourth round of the HSF (1 April 2023 until 31 March 2024) helped to support over 60,000 people in the BCP area. Food vouchers were issued to 12,557 families, 7,000 households received grants to help with food and fuel costs, and 60 grants were awarded to community and voluntary sector organisations seeking to make positive change – totalling £400,000.
BCP Council is working closely with community and voluntary sector partners through the ‘Together We Can’ partnership, delivering a range of support including in the following five main areas to provide the most effective relief to struggling households:
- Household grants for essential costs
- Food support
- Keeping warm and energy support
- Pension Credit
- Community initiatives – working with our voluntary and community sector
To learn more about the five main areas, visit: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/news-hub/news-articles/household-support-fund-extended
