Household Support Scheme to extend this year

A new phase of the Household Support Scheme has been given the go ahead to carry on helping people with the rising cost of living.

The scheme currently gives support to people who are not eligible for income related benefits and who have not had any other government cost of living support to date.

The Government announced that the fund would be extended from April 2023 for a full year, and the package, for £3.2m for the next two years, was approved at the Council’s Executive Board this week.

The Council has successfully delivered the HSS since October 2021 in partnership with voluntary, community and faith sector partner organisations who work together to get the vital support to those who need it most.

You can still apply for the Household Support Scheme now if you are in need of support – the current phase of the scheme runs until the end of March.

There’s help for fuel payments, food parcels, boiler servicing, home insulation and items such as fridges and washing machines that may need replacing.

Everyone is feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis – there is no shame in reaching out for help or support.

Councillor Damian Talbot, Executive Member for Public Health, Prevention and Wellbeing, said:

We don’t know how long the cost of living crisis is going to go on, but it’s clear that many residents are struggling and will be for some time yet.  Continuing to support all our residents, including the most vulnerable, from the ongoing rising cost of living is vital to us, and so it is helpful that this fund will be extended for another year

People can still apply for the current phase of funding until the end of March, and we are also asking that people to help out any family or friends who might eligible for the Household Support Scheme with their online application if they are not confident with doing this online.”

You can apply if you live in Blackburn or Darwen and even if you are in full or part time work – and you don’t have to be claiming benefits.

To apply, visit www.blackburn.gov.uk/cost-living-support/household-support-scheme

Once we receive your form one of the team will ring you back and talk through the offer with you.

You can also find lots more information to help you on the cost of living support page, at: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/cost-living-support/help-rising-cost-living

This includes local voluntary organisations and charities as well as national schemes.

For all sorts of help via the Government, go to: https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/