Southend-on-Sea City Council is rolling out a fresh round of the Household Support Fund (HSF) from October 2024 to March 2025, putting a significant spotlight on pensioners facing rising living costs.
Thanks to £1,413,079 in UK Government funding, the Council is committed to supporting local households in need. Notably, £250,000 of this funding has been specifically earmarked for pensioners—many of whom find themselves vulnerable to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, particularly those who narrowly miss out on Pension Credit eligibility.
This extension of the HSF is designed to tackle urgent needs like food, energy bills, and household essentials, ensuring that support is accessible when it’s most needed. Pensioners can apply for grants of up to £360 to help cover these essentials, with the option to receive two grants throughout the winter months.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said:
“We understand the challenges our most vulnerable residents face, particularly pensioners. That’s why we’ve reserved this funding to help those struggling with rising costs. We’ve also introduced a new process to identify pensioners who are entitled to but not yet claiming Pension Credit. So far, we’ve identified 715 residents who we will assist in making their claims. We encourage all pensioners to check their eligibility for this vital support.”
The newly launched ‘Southend Pensioner Support’ initiative aims to ensure that help is delivered quickly and efficiently, so no one is left behind. By working with local partners and leveraging the Household Support Fund, the Council is committed to helping pensioners and other vulnerable residents stay warm, fed, and secure through the winter.
Estimates suggest that approximately 10,000 of Southend’s 32,000 pensioners are eligible for Winter Fuel Payments through Pension Credit, although not all claim their entitlement. This dedicated pensioner fund offers peace of mind to those struggling with food or fuel bills, providing a much-needed safety net.
The Council’s Essential Living Fund (ELF), which handles local welfare provision, will oversee the majority of the fund distribution. In addition to food and fuel grants, eligible households can apply for energy-efficient white goods, such as fridges and washing machines, helping them reduce energy costs long-term.
To ensure the fund reaches a wide range of vulnerable residents, the Council will also collaborate with Citizens Advice Southend and the Southend Emergency Fund. These local charities and support groups will help distribute the funds to pensioners, disabled individuals, and those with caring responsibilities, ensuring broad access to support across the community.
How to Apply:
A dedicated webpage has been set up by Southend-on-Sea City Council, providing full details on how pensioners and other eligible residents can apply for Household Support Fund assistance. Applications can also be made through partner organisations like Citizens Advice.
To further reach those who are not online, the Council will make information available in GP surgeries, family hubs, and community centres, ensuring easy access to this vital support for all.
For more information, please visit:
Support for pensioners – Southend-on-Sea City Council