Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: November 5, 2024

Purpose: Decide whether to continue (and potentially expand) the cost of living support programme during 2025-26.   

Content: Cabinet: a)    Agreed £40,000 funding for 2025-26 to continue and embed the existing programme of Cost of Living projects to include:                           i.    Project budget for cost-saving products at £30,000                          ii.    Project budget for period products at £10,000 b)    Noted the proposal to run an Invitation to Tender process for the continuation of the Emergency Food Parcel service using existing and available funds. c)    Agreed £64,000 funding for 2025-26 for the proposal for Phase 3 projects to include:                           i.    Income Maximisation Officer for one-year Fixed Term contract at a cost of £47,000                          ii.    Educational Readiness Support for young people aged 11+ at a cost of £10,000                         iii.    Financial Skills Support workshops at a cost of £3,000                        iv.    Digital Skills Support workshops at a cost of £4,000 d)    Agreed £47,000 funding for 2025-26 to continue the role of the Cost of Living Project Officer to embed and expand the programme. e)    Agreed the proposal for the Project Officer to create a Cost of Living strategy and/or operational plan. f)     Noted that the term of these proposals was the 2025-26 financial year. The Council’s Cost of Living programme was planned to conclude on 31 March 2026. At a future point the position regarding the Cost of Living Crisis would need to be reassessed to see if any further Council support was required.