Household Support Fund Extended
A scheme designed to help residents struggling with pressures caused by the ongoing cost of living crisis has been extended until the end of March 2026. Somerset Council has been allocated £6.74 million from the Government via theHousehold Support Fund, which will be directed towards providing critical support for families, older residents, and people facing financial challenges in Somerset. The funding will be allocated by the Council in several key areas, including:
- Food Vouchers: Distributed through schools to families on Free School Meals.
Funding for community hubs: Allocating money to community hubs in Somerset via the Somerset Community Foundation so that residents have access to warm spaces, food larders and meal provision if they need it. - Community Support: Supporting existing Voluntary,Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) organisations such as Age UK, Citizen’s Advice Somerset, and Community Council for Somerset to continue doing their essential work.
- Hospital Discharge Grants: Allocating grants to residents who need support transitioning out of hospital care and back home into the community.
- Emergency Grants: For crisis interventions, distributed by Somerset Community Foundation and the online Auriga portal.
- Council Tax Support: Assisting those in financially challenging circumstances.
- Support for Young People: Reducing the cost of utility bills for young people who are in the Thrive 16+ programme.
The delivery of the Household Support Fund will be overseen by the Connect Somerset transformation programme, a collaborative effort involving Somerset Council, NHS Somerset, and various VCFSE organisations. This partnership ensures that support reaches the most vulnerable individuals and families in our community through established networks and mechanisms. Find Connect Somerset to find out more.
Find out more about the support that is available via the Council’s Household Support Fund page. Residents are encouraged to access the Household Support offer online.
If this is not possible, Somerset Council’s Customer Services team can help signpost to the right support via 0300 123 2224. Somerset Council phonelines are available Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm.
Read more by downloading the pdf newsletter below:
