A new scheme has been launched to support residents who are either in, or at risk of being in crisis, are in need of immediate help and have no other source of financial support available to them.
What kind of support can you get?
The Resident Support Scheme will help with short-term basic living costs such as food and credit for gas/electric prepayment meters. It can also help in some circumstances with white goods, furniture and clothing. It is intended to meet one-off crisis or emergency need and is not designed to meet any type of ongoing expenses.
Cash will not usually be awarded, but a pay point voucher (which can be redeemed for cash) or bank transfer can be supplied where necessary.
Items required, such as furniture, ovens or fridges will be purchased through the scheme and the delivery will be arranged with the resident directly to their home.
If approved, delivery of these items will be arranged within five working days. The old item will be removed, where applicable, and the new item will be installed.
The scheme will also signpost residents to other sources of support that are available to ensure that they can get the maximum level of help.
There may also be the opportunity for referral for advice/assistance with financial, debt and/or welfare benefits to try and address the resident’s long-term needs.
Who does the scheme help?
All residents aged 16 years or over are eligible to apply but the council has identified the following groups as a priority to support:
- those experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse
- families with young children
- older people
- people with longer-term illnesses
- people with disabilities
- people with mental health needs
- households with a pregnant person
Full details and a link to apply can be found on the following web page: