About the Household Support Fund
What is the Household Support Fund
We know that sudden unexpected costs can create real challenges for our residents who are experiencing financial hardship. The sudden increase in the cost of living is hitting all households and the scheme is designed to support those most in need.
The Government have announced a further Household Support Fund to be delivered between 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.
Devon County Council are providing the following from the funding:
- £15 per child per week of the school holidays to families who qualify for free school meals. Supermarket Vouchers will be provided for 4 weeks.
- Citizens Advice Devon Energy Relief scheme for pre-payment and credit meters will continue to run until 31 March 2025 or until funds are exhausted. This will allow those using pre-payment meters to apply for funds to top up meters.
- Early Help to provide financial support for food and other essential costs for eligible low-income households. This will stay an open application process verified by a professional working with the family.
- Funding to Devon Community Foundation to deploy funds to voluntary and community organisations that support specific groups who may struggle to access the support and help they need.
Fraud
We are committed to tackling and preventing fraud in all its forms. If a claimant attempts to claim an award from the Household Support Fund by making a false declaration or providing false evidence or statements, they may have committed an offence under the Theft Act 1968.
If we suspect that fraud may have occurred, it will investigate the matter as appropriate, and this may lead to criminal proceedings.
The Community and Voluntary Sector will be targeting local carers for direct support and working with NHS services to identify vulnerable households that may need additional support. If residents are not currently linked in with the voluntary sector and wish to self-refer, they can complete the open application process, and we will refer them directly to this fund.
Exeter Community Energy – Advice to residents on reducing energy bills and signposting to funding schemes is provided by Exeter Community energy through the Local Energy Advice programme (LEAP). This funding is limited and to enhance the service in Teignbridge £10K has been allocated to provide energy saving items to support vulnerable households reduce energy costs.
Where you can get help with other costs not included within the fund
The Department for Work and Pensions are responsible for providing a number of payments and advances for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
These include:
- Funeral Payments
- Sure Start Maternity Grant
- Short-term Benefit Advances
- Budgeting Advance
- Winter Fuel and Cold Weather Payments - Please follow this link to see the eligibility criteria Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
For further information please speak to your local Jobcentre Plus office.