• That the Council will deploy a fifth
Household Support Fund (HSF) allocation (1 April – 30
September 2024) 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 fifth 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.
- Increasing the maximum number of 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
10 May 2024 to reflect the programme.