• 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.