Further Support for Shropshire Families as Government Extends Household Support
Stuart Anderson MP is pleased that the new government has agreed to extend the Household Support Fund, after he had urged it to do so. On 24th August 2024, Stuart called on the new government to continue the Fund, which last year saw more than 30,000 payments made to struggling families in Shropshire.
On 2nd September, the new government confirmed an extension of the Fund until March 2025 - with a further £421 million to be invested in councils in England. This will build on the £8 million that Shropshire Council was allocated under the previous government. Since 2021, it has supported those most in need with the cost of daily essentials such as food, clothing, and utilities like energy and water bills.
In Shropshire last year, 39% of awards went to families with children, 31% to those with disabilities, and 6% to pensioners. Over the past three years, the government provided £2.5 billion to help councils in England provide discretionary support to those most in need. At the Spring Budget, an extra £500 million was then announced to enable a six-month extension until the end of September.
Stuart has welcomed the extension, which empowers English councils to use their ties and local knowledge to meet local needs. They have the discretion to design their own local schemes and determine how support is provided to local communities, in particular for those who may not be eligible for other government support schemes available.
Stuart Anderson MP:
“The Household Support Fund has supported thousands of struggling families in Shropshire with the cost of daily essentials. That’s why I called on the new government to extend the fund for at least six more months. I am pleased that it has agreed to the extension. This will enable Shropshire Council to continue supporting our local communities, by building on £8 million already invested.”
