Cabinet agrees to continue supporting vulnerable residents through the Household Support Fund

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• Supporting vulnerable residents defines the agreed proposed distribution of the Household Support Fund

At the Cabinet meeting on Thursday 8 June, it was agreed there will be a cross-departmental and cross-partner approach to the distribution of the fourth round of funding received from the Household Support Fund. The fund was introduced by the Government in September 2021, to enable local authorities to distribute funds to support residents most in financial need.

Rokhsana Fiaz OBE Mayor of Newham said: “It is important that we continue to support Newham residents through the ongoing day-to-day challenges brought about by the pressures of the ever increasing cost of living and its devastating economic impact. Our newly agreed distribution model will ensure that the funds secured will be delivered to those in most need in a fair and speedy manner.

“Using the tried and proven method of partnerships to address key issues, we are looking forward to continuing working with voluntary, community and faith sector organisations in Newham and our Children’s Centres to distribute this hardship grant to support children, families and individuals.”

So far, Newham has received £7million from the previous three rounds of funding of the Household Support Fund which was delivered to over 88,000 residents to support them with food, utilities and other essentials.

The latest round of funding will see £6million being delivered to residents in need through a variety of distribution routes – the Council’s Children’s Centres and Schools as well as other partners in the voluntary, community and faith sectors. The recommendation builds on the current successful approach of working closely with voluntary, community and faith sector partners to distribute hardship funds using a controlled outreach and distribution model based on local knowledge and trusted relationships with the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

To apply for the Household Support fund, visit https://www.ournewhammoney.co.uk/hardship-support-application-form/ or for other support, see www.newham.gov.uk/costoflivingresponse 

Published: 08 Jun 2023