Millions to be made available to the most vulnerable in North Northants this winter

02 December 2021

Millions of pounds will be made available to help the most vulnerable this winter as the economy of the North Northants area continues to recover from the Covid pandemic.

A total of £2.5million will be made available through the Government’s Household Support Fund (HSF).

This support ranges from Holiday School Meal Vouchers for the next two term holidays to a fuel bank concept which supports the maintenance of energy within the household over the winter period. 

A fuel bank works like a food bank but offering emergency energy top-ups instead of food parcels.

These will be available to residents on pre-payment meters who have disconnected from the energy network (or are at imminent risk of disconnecting) and lack the means to keep the light or heat on. Eligible residents will receive a same-day £40 emergency credit.

The process of identifying the individuals and families in need will be done through the Citizens Advice Bureau and Job Centre Plus.

For more information please visit the council’s Household Support Fund page.

The HSF is the third iteration of the COVID-19 Winter Grant Scheme that was originally launched in November 2020. This latest fund will be available up to March 2022. 

In line with previous iterations, there is a stipulation that a minimum of 50% of the fund must be used to support families with children.

I’m proud that we’re in a position to be able to help the most vulnerable in North Northants during the winter months and I’m grateful to Government for making this money available.

It is almost two years since Covid first emerged and it has been an immensely challenging time for everyone.

However there are some families who have really felt the pinch and so it’s our duty to play this vital role to offer the appropriate support where we can.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council