West Devon Borough Council has announced £300,682 in funding for its Crisis and Resilience Fund, which officially replaced the Household Support Fund in April. The new initiative aims to provide both emergency aid and long-term support for locals feeling the squeeze.
The council is partnering with South Hams District Council to create a dedicated Financial Advice and Support Team, because nothing says 'help' like a bureaucratic merger. Crisis payments will target low-income households, with Devon care leavers getting priority - proof that even in a crisis, someone's making a list.
Residents can apply for help with everyday essentials, and later this year, electric blankets, warm clothing, and slow cookers will be available. Because nothing builds financial resilience like a free slow cooker.
Councillor Jane Elliott, the council's hub lead for community wellbeing, delivered the news with a straight face: 'We know that for many people, it does not take much for things to become difficult.' The council will also explore community energy schemes and partner with organizations offering free energy advice.
Of the total, £20,000 goes to West Devon CVS to coordinate local support, and £20,590 to Homemaker Southwest for welfare benefits and debt advice. 'This funding means we can offer help when it is needed most,' Elliott added, name-checking the heating oil loan scheme as if it were a luxury amenity.
Residents can find application details on the council's website - because nothing says 'accessibility' like a URL.