£400k of extra support to people in financial hardship

Residents in severe financial crisis following the Covid-19 pandemic can now access extra food support and help to pay their bills in changes to welfare policy being introduced by Bath & North East Somerset Council. The council is increasing the weekly amount of money for food support provided to residents living in hardship, as well as introducing a wider range of supermarket vouchers and prepaid debit cards for bills, essential household items and clothes. The council will increase its welfare support budget from £190,000 to £590,000 for the 2021/22 year to mitigate the impact the pandemic has had on jobs, livelihoods and businesses. This targeted support will be used to help people with their debt, bills, household purchases, clothing and items for children. The scheme is also being widened to invite applications from all residents in severe need rather than certain groups. It is being introduced following a Single Member Decision made by Councillor Richard Samuel, acting council Leader and cabinet member for Resources. Here in Twerton residents have been struggling to keeep their heads above water and this fund will help some of our hardest hit residents. The council particularly welcome applications from residents who have lost employment during the course of the pandemic or are facing redundancy, as well as mediated applications through key partner organisations such as Citizens Advice. Please apply if you are in financial hardship and need urgent help.” People in financial hardship are defined as being unable to meet basic living costs for food, shelter and clothing, taking into account the resources they have available to them. Applications can be made via email or by telephone to the welfare support team welfare_support@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 477277. The increases in support for food under the welfare support policy are as follows: Household size Existing level of support Single Person £30 rising to £50 2-3 people £50 rising to £70 4 or more £70 rising to £100