Decision details

To set out, and seek approval for, the deployment of a sixth Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 October 2024 – 31 March 2025) in order to provide assistance to vulnerable and low-income households in most need of support, and to help with essential living costs over the winter period.

• That the Council will deploy a sixth Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 October 2024 – 31 March 2025) of £3,537,549.92, in order to provide support to vulnerable households in need of crisis support, with the cost of essentials over the next 6 months.
• That in line with Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) guidance for the sixth phase of HSF, the Council will deliver a programme of targeted and universal support through the following mechanisms:
- Direct award in the form of a shopping voucher to eligible households in receipt of maximum Council Tax Reduction (CTR).
- HSF Exceptional Circumstances Fund for those who have not benefitted from support due to circumstances beyond their control and meet the eligibility criteria.
- Energy support
- Grants for food banks and providers of free or low-cost food.
- Emergency awards available through North Yorkshire Local Assistance Fund (NYLAF).
- Support for Care Leavers.
North Yorkshire’s Delivery Plan will be submitted to DWP on 5 November 2024 to reflect the programme.
• That the Assistant Director for Customer, Revenue and Benefits will undertake any subsequent residual funding decisions in liaison with the Executive Member for Corporate Services.

DWP requires the submission of an HSF Delivery Plan by 5 November 2024 to outline the deployment of allocated funds in North Yorkshire.

Not to utilise the Household Support Fund allocation – this would have resulted in additional support not being available to residents of North Yorkshire.