Tameside Council has allocated £2.2 million to assist its most vulnerable residents this winter through the latest round of the Household Support Fund (HSF).
This government-backed initiative aims to alleviate financial pressures caused by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, ensuring families and individuals receive essential support.
The funding will primarily focus on providing supermarket vouchers during school holidays and running an open application scheme for residents in need of help with food, energy, and other essentials.
In previous rounds, the HSF has benefited thousands of residents across the borough, including pensioners, children, carers, and disabled individuals, by covering vital needs such as food, energy, and household items.
The £2.2 million has been divided across seven key programmes designed to address the specific needs of the community:
Supermarket Vouchers: Distributed during school holidays for families eligible for free school meals.
Direct Support: Financial assistance for individuals, families, and households.
Community Funding: Support for voluntary organisations, food banks, and pantries to aid vulnerable residents during the colder months.
Advice Services: Enhanced welfare rights and debt advice through council services.
Essential Household Items: Assistance via the Tameside Resettlement Scheme.
Housing Support: Help with moving from temporary accommodation into secure housing.
Open Application Scheme: Direct financial assistance for food, energy, and related necessities.
Councillor Jack Naylor, Executive Member for Finance and Resources, expressed gratitude for the continuation of the fund.
“I’m delighted that the Household Support Fund is continuing and we’re using the latest £2.2million funding to help low-income households. We’re determined to do everything we can to help people with cost-of-living pressures, particularly our most vulnerable residents,” Naylor said.
While the Household Support Fund provides critical aid, Tameside Council faces financial challenges of its own.
The latest budget review reveals the council must find £16.7 million in savings within six months. Of this, £4 million has already been identified, leaving £12.3 million to be addressed by April 2025.
Despite these hurdles, the council remains committed to ensuring its residents receive the support they need, especially as the government is expected to extend the HSF programme for another six months.
With winter fast approaching, Tameside Council’s proactive approach ensures that essential support reaches those who need it most.
By addressing immediate needs and planning for long-term sustainability, the borough is taking vital steps to protect its most vulnerable residents during challenging times.
