Cheshire East Council awarded £4.4 million to support residents with the cost of living

Cheshire East Council has been awarded £4.4 million from the Department of Work and Pensions’ (DWP) Household Support Fund to support local residents with the cost of living.

The funding award is part of £842 million being distributed to local authorities across England to provide households that are struggling with rising energy, housing and food costs. Through the scheme, financial help can take the form of supermarket vouchers, cash for energy vouchers, help with boiler repair or replacements, and help with housing costs for those in rented accommodation.]

Full eligibility details of those able to access support from the council can be found on the Cheshire East website.

Since October 2022, with the help of schools, colleges, early years settings and other family support services, Cheshire East Council have provided the following support:

• Over 85,000 vouchers in total have been provided to support the most vulnerable households across the county
• Over 75,000 food vouchers have been provided
• Over 3,000 utilities vouchers have been provided
• Over 3,100 people were supported through the enquiry form

Cllr Carol Bulman, lead member for children and families at Cheshire East Council said:

“The impact of Covid, rising inflation and the increased cost of living has hit our families hard.

“It is a fact that some of our families are struggling to put food on the table.

“The Household Support Fund has been a lifeline for families in Cheshire East who are most in need, and we’re pleased to have been able to use this fund to help people of all ages who need assistance.

“This week we’re taking the opportunity to recognise the impact this additional funding has had, and the great work of our teams at the council and partners who have helped to reach out to eligible families, and ensure they receive financial help when they need it most.

“I’d also urge any of our residents who are struggling to afford the basics, to reach out to us at the council. Help is always at hand, and there are many schemes on offer that can provide guidance or crucial support to the most vulnerable.”