Decision details

To set out, and seek approval for, the deployment of a seventh Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026) in order to provide assistance to vulnerable and low-income households in most need of support, and to help with significantly rising living costs over the next year.

• That the Council will deploy a seventh Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026) of £6,234,826.70, in order to provide support to vulnerable households in need of crisis support, with the cost of essentials over the next 12 months.
• That in line with Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) guidance for the seventh 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 75% to 100% 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 30 May 2025 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 30 May 2025 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.