Issue - meetings

The Board received a report from the Director of Finance, which outlined the final spend position regarding the delivery of the Government’s Household Support Fund for 2023/24. 

A spending plan had been prepared and was attached as Appendix A.  It was noted that £158,077 had been allocated to the Discretionary Support Scheme within the Benefits Division to process applications. As per Government guidance, it was intended to cover a wide range of low income households in need, including families with children, pensioners and people with disabilities. 

Appendix B of the report contained detailed information relating to spending for the period 1 April 2024 to 30 September 2024.  This included expenditure from partner organisations including Halton Citizens Advice Bureau;  Widnes Foodbank; Runcorn Foodbank; Holiday Activity Food Programme; Affordable Warmth – Energy Projects Plus; and Halton Voluntary Action.

          A member of the Board requested that consideration be given to providing food vouchers the Community Shop, as well as the major supermarkets.  Officers agreed to explore this option and update Members accordingly. 

RESOLVED:  That:

1)              the final position regarding the Household Support Fund for 2023/24 be noted; and

2)              the spending plan for the Household Support Fund for the period 1 April 2024 – 30 September 2024 be noted.