Struggling with rising bills? A new £250 cost-of-living payment is set to bring relief to thousands of UK households. Here’s how the scheme works and who stands to benefit.
UK Households to Get £250 Cost of Living Cash in New Lifeline Scheme!
By Chourouk Derkaoui
Published on 18 November 2024 10:30
The people of Rotherham need substantial help with the cost of living to temporarily ease the pressure in these difficult times. The scheme is supported by a £2.5 million government grant from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), including direct grants, vouchers and targeted help for vulnerable households and individuals.
The scheme, which builds on the success of a similar program earlier this year, is expected to bring relief to thousands of households across the borough.
£250 Energy Grants and More
More than £1.1 million was dedicated for payment of fuel debts or paying for households struggling with rising energy costs. The maximum grant for those eligible is 250 pounds. Similar to another project launched in earlier this year, this mind is estimated to help about 4,622 families.
Expanding Households Council Tax Support
An additional £150,000 has been allocated to the Local Council Tax Support Scheme. Meaning that the necessary reduction in Council Tax, for households in the lowest income bracket receiving Council Tax Support, will enable these people to avoid paying the minimum amount of Council Tax in 2024/25.
The assistance will be issued without residents having to complete certain applications, making the scheme fully automated.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
Other targeted allocations include:
- £45,000 to support care leavers.
- £60,000 for voluntary and community groups to aid vulnerable families during the holiday season.
- £50,000 for essential household items such as hygiene products, distributed via food banks and social supermarkets.
Additionally, funds have been set aside to handle increased demand, ensuring that any unspent resources are redirected to energy crisis support.
School Meal Vouchers for Children
Pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 will receive vouchers worth £15 for each week of the school year during the school holidays up to the October half-term. Credited directly to schools, these vouchers do not involve any additional application procedure, making it easier for families.
Rotherham’s Cabinet is expected to approve the funding plan, which must be fully spent by March 2025. The council aims to bolster local financial resilience while addressing the diverse needs of its residents.