Council Cabinet will be asked to approve a £2.225m grant from the Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) following the Governments recent announcement that the Household Support Funding will be extended for a further six months, running from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.

The Household Support Fund provides support for eligible households with cost of energy, water and food bills.

Proposals for the allocation of the funding include:

  • Allocation of food vouchers to all schools in Derby for pupils eligible for free school meals
  • An application based online form for residents to apply for financial help towards food and energy costs
  • A community led approach to supporting residents with the cost of living though Warm Welcome Hubs, providing food and a warm drink along with information and signposting for support.
  • Essential household items provided to households in financial crisis, aimed at reducing energy bills and providing warm clothing/bedding.
  • Support for eligible pensioners with rising cost of living, including energy and food bills.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities said:

As a Council, we are committed to ensuring that vulnerable households get the help they need, especially during these challenging times.  The extension of the Household Support Fund will allow us to continue to provide essential relief to families facing financial difficulties.  We will be issuing more information on how exactly the funding will be allocated, but it is crucial that it’s directed to those who most need it, supporting the most vulnerable members of our city.”

A recent audit by the DWP identified how the Council has previously implemented the fund, stating:

Derby City Council exemplifies how a well-coordinated and empathetic approach can make a different in a community.  Their strategic use of the Household Support Fund, focussing on both immediate and long-term solutions, services as a model for addressing poverty and deprivation.  Through collaboration with community partners and unwavering commitment to improvement, the team are making a positive and lasting impact on the community.”