Thousands of low-income households in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea will soon receive a one-off £50 cost of living payment to help cover essential expenses. This initiative is part of a wider financial relief effort aimed at supporting those struggling with rising costs. The proposal, which includes council tax discounts and free school meal vouchers, is expected to be approved at the Full Council meeting on March 5, 2025.
The initiative comes at a time when many households continue to face financial hardship due to inflation, increased energy bills, and higher food prices. Local authorities across the UK have been implementing similar measures to help ease the burden on low-income families.
Financial Assistance for Low-Income Households
According to Birmingham Live, around 15,000 low-income residents will be eligible for the £50 cost of living payment, which can be used to help cover essential expenses such as household bills, food, clothing, and transport costs. This financial aid forms part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing economic hardship in the borough.
In addition to the direct payment, the council is proposing further relief measures, including council tax discounts for over 13,000 residents and free school meal vouchers for eligible pupils outside of term time. These measures aim to provide additional support to families who are struggling to keep up with the increasing cost of living.
Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council, emphasised the council’s dedication to supporting residents during these challenging times. She stated: “The rising cost of living is putting pressure on hard-working families in the borough, and we are determined to help those residents who need it the most.”
Additional Support for Pensioners
The council is also extending support to pensioners in social housing, particularly those who just missed out on Pension Credit eligibility or were affected by recent changes to winter fuel payments. Last week, a £200 payment was issued to assist with heating costs, ensuring that elderly residents were not left without financial support during the colder months.
Discussing this initiative, Cllr Elizabeth Campbell highlighted the importance of ensuring that vulnerable pensioners receive the help they need. She said: “I’m proud that we offered eligible pensioners in social housing with a £200 payment to help heat their homes, following changes to the winter fuel payment nationally.”
This payment reflects the council’s broader strategy to reduce financial stress on older residents, ensuring they can afford basic necessities such as heating and electricity during the winter.
A £750,000 Commitment to Ease Financial Burdens
The one-off cost of living payment and additional relief measures are part of a £750,000 funding commitment from Kensington and Chelsea Council. This fund is designed to provide targeted financial assistance to residents facing economic difficulties. The council recognises that while national schemes exist, many households fall through the cracks and require additional local support.
Cllr Elizabeth Campbell reaffirmed the council’s dedication to providing financial relief for struggling residents, stating: “We are looking at a £750,000 commitment to help residents on low incomes with the cost of living.”
The final budget, which includes these cost-of-living support measures, will be reviewed and approved at the Full Council meeting on March 5, 2025. Residents are encouraged to check the council’s website for updates on eligibility criteria and how to claim their payments.
