Decision

There is a cost-of-living crisis in the UK
resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already in poverty,
people in Herefordshire will be forced to make tough decisions
about when and what they eat, what they can do in life, and when
they can afford to heat their home.

Funding towards the preventative support programme is available as
part of the Household Support Fund, to enable community hubs and
organisations across Herefordshire to provide preventative support
for residents that are potentially at risk of falling into
financial crisis or further into financial crisis. We will invite
local community organisations to deliver sessions and activities
that alleviate financial stress, improve wellbeing and prevent
poverty locally. The offer must engage with financially vulnerable
residents in Herefordshire and make a measurable impact on those
residents’ financial resilience and wellbeing.

Herefordshire Council has received an allocation of
£1,329,601.78 from the Department of Works and Pensions under
the next phase of the Household Support Fund which will run from 1
October 2024 to 31 March 2025. The expectation is that the funding
should be used primarily to support households in the most
need.

This scheme will form part of wider offer that is being developed
as part of the allocation of the Household Support Fund.

Between March and May 2024, 300 people per day were declared
insolvent or bankrupt in England and Wales. Additionally, the
Citizens Advice Bureau in England and Wales handled 1,183
debt-related issues daily during the year leading up to May
2024.

By utilising government funding for preventative support, there
will be a positive impact on vulnerable residents at risk of
financial crises. This support will help individuals become more
resilient and less likely to fall into debt. Research highlights
direct links between financial management and the effects on
physical and mental wellbeing. Preventative support empowers
participants with knowledge about financial services, enabling them
to prepare for life events, address financial difficulties, and
build resilience. These outcomes are expected to positively affect
their overall wellbeing.