Vulnerable people living in Bristol will be supported this winter by a £4m grant scheme that has recently been approved by the Council.
Bristol City Council’s Cabinet approved the rollout of the Household Support Fund, committing at least 50% of the money to supporting vulnerable households with children.
A large proportion of the money will be allocated to around 28,000 households and individuals of working age on Housing Benefit or the Council Tax Reduction Scheme. Eligible residents will receive a one-off £100 supermarket voucher to spend on food and household goods.
Free school meal vouchers will also be made available to parents of eligible early years and school age children during February 2022 half term using the grant.
Further targeted support will be available including help for Syrian and Afghan refugees and asylum seekers living in the city, with the help of the Red Cross.
Cllr Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor of Bristol with responsibility for finance, governance and performance, said: ‘Winter is always a difficult time of year, with increased household bills and Christmas putting pressure on those who are already struggling financially.
‘Supporting our most vulnerable residents, is a top priority and we know that people are still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as facing the rising cost of living. Additional support for the city’s refugees and asylum seekers too also reinforces our mission to create a City of Sanctuary, providing safety and support for all.
‘This funding is incredibly valuable and it’s vital that we use it to support as many people facing financial hardship as possible, providing an important safety net that many of us take for granted.’
Photo supplied by Bristol City Council