Issue - decisions

• 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.