STRUGGLING Somerset families and residents have been given a boost this winter as Somerset Council prepare to hand out £3.8million to help with increased living costs.

The money comes as part of the government's plan to get local councils to provide funding to support those struggling during winter when utility bills increase.

Somerset Council will be distributing around £3.8m to those in need between October 2024 and March 2025 as part of the Government’s Household Support Fund.

The funding includes food and fuel vouchers and essential items directly to those in need.

Other ways the funding is being spent include: 

  • Support Age UK Somerset, Citizens Advice Somerset, Community Council for Somerset and Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership to deliver their vital support for the county’s most vulnerable families and residents.
  • To be used during the school holidays to provide food vouchers worth £10 a week to children eligible for Free School Meals, supporting at least 15,000 children this winter.
  • Support for hard-to-reach rural communities via local warm hubs, using local community spaces to support families and residents to access help such as help with training or employment opportunities and food banks, larders and pantries.

  • Grants for vulnerable families and older people to help cover heating costs and activities to reduce loneliness and isolation.

  • Supporting charities which help homeless people, including helping fund essential furniture such as white goods.

Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Finance, Procurement and Performance, Councillor Liz Leyshon said: "We know that many Somerset households will continue to be affected by the cost-of-living crisis this winter, so this additional funding will make a real difference in the lives of our most vulnerable residents.

"We have ensured that the funding is allocated across community groups and through Somerset Community Foundation with a view to supporting people of all ages and abilities in our communities.

"Our partnership with local community groups is critical to ensuring that the help reaches those who need it most."