A Household Support Fund grant of £2,261,298 has been confirmed for Reading borough to provide cost of living support to households in the most need; particularly those who may not be eligible for the other support government has recently made available.

The grant is funded by the Department of Work and Pensions and is to be utilised between 1 April 2023 and the 31 March 2024.

The amount of funding each local authority receives is decided by government depending on the level of need of residents in the area.

Local authorities can use the funding allocated to them in the way that will most suit the needs of residents. In Reading, funding is allocated as follows:

1. The provision of direct financial support to low-income households with children in receipt of pupil premium/free school meals, care leavers, and households with older people above state pension age in receipt of Housing Benefit who do not receive the direct government support provided to recipients of other DWP benefits.
2. An application-based scheme that allows residents to apply for support if they are struggling financially.
3. In line with government guidance, a small proportion of the funding is being used to cover administration costs.

To find out more and how to apply view Household Support Fund - Reading Borough Council