Purpose

To set out, and seek approval for, the
deployment of a seventh Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1
April 2025 – 31 March 2026) in order to provide assistance to
vulnerable and low-income households in most need of support, and
to help with significantly rising living costs over the next
year.

Decision

• That the Council will deploy a seventh
Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 April 2025 – 31
March 2026) of £6,234,826.70, in order to provide support to
vulnerable households in need of crisis support, with the cost of
essentials over the next 12 months.
• That in line with Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)
guidance for the seventh phase of HSF, the Council will deliver a
programme of targeted and universal support through the following
mechanisms:
- Direct award in the form of a shopping voucher to eligible
households in receipt of 75% to 100% Council Tax Reduction
(CTR).
- HSF Exceptional Circumstances Fund for those who have not
benefitted from support due to circumstances beyond their control
and meet the eligibility criteria.
- Energy support
- Grants for food banks and providers of free or low-cost
food.
- Emergency awards available through North Yorkshire Local
Assistance Fund (NYLAF).
- Support for Care Leavers.
North Yorkshire’s Delivery Plan will be submitted to DWP on
30 May 2025 to reflect the programme.
• That the Assistant Director for Customer, Revenue and
Benefits will undertake any subsequent residual funding decisions
in liaison with the Executive Member for Corporate Services.

Reasons for the decision

DWP requires the submission of an HSF Delivery
Plan by 30 May 2025 to outline the deployment of allocated funds in
North Yorkshire.

Alternative options considered

Not to utilise the Household Support Fund
allocation – this would have resulted in additional support
not being available to residents of North Yorkshire.