Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 16, 2025

Purpose: To seek approval of the Household Support Fund Policy and its proposed allocation, including change of budget to reflect this funding.

Content: That the Committee for Strategy and Resources:   1. Approved the Household Support Fund Policy 7 April 2025 – March 2026 and change of budget to reflect this funding as outlined in this report.   2. Authorised the Director of Finance (S151 Officer) in consultation with the Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee to take all steps required to accept and spend (including procuring and awarding contracts over £500k) for the £7.1m of the extended allocation of the DWP Household Support Fund as outlined in Household Support Fund 7 Policy April 2025 – March 2026, and up to the maximum budget envelope outlined in this report.   3. Noted the Finance Urgent Key Decisions taken in March 2025 to allocate £700,000 to the council’s Local Crisis and Prevention Fund, and in April 2025 to spend £352,500 on Free School Meals food vouchers over the May half terms school holidays from this fund.