Essex County Council announces help for families during cost-of-living crisis
An additional £700,000 has been added to the Essential Living Fund
The additional funding will ensure that more residents are able to apply for assistance with essential living costs.
Submitted by Essex County Council
A recently agreed increase in funding will see more households across the county able to apply for help with essential living costs.
Essex County Council has made a commitment to add an additional £700,000 to the Essential Living Fund, which will double its size.
The fund is there to help families and individuals in Essex who need emergency support in times of crisis.
Residents can apply online or by phone and, if eligible, will be offered support including vouchers for food and fuel and high-quality pre-owned furniture from reputable charities, as well as white goods.
The doubling of funding reflects the cost-of-living pressures residents are currently facing, which are predicted to continue.
Councillor Chris Whitbread, cabinet member for finance, said: “With the cost of living continuing to rise, we are committed to supporting our residents who are feeling the strain.
“Today’s budget puts our communities at the forefront with a £700,000 cash injection into our Essential Living Fund which provides food, fuel, furniture and household essentials for those struggling.
"This extra funding will be a lifeline to many and I hope that it goes some way in relieving some of the worry and stress vulnerable adults and families may be feeling at this time."
Councillor Louise McKinlay, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities, said: "We know many of our residents are worried about the cost of living and we are doing all we can to be there for them and support them.
"Last week, we announced thousands of vulnerable adults in the county would be receiving £200 vouchers for food and fuel from our Household Support Fund and today the Essential Living Fund has doubled in size to £700,000.
"This money will go a long way in making sure households are comfortable and have access to the essential things many of us often take for granted."
For more information and eligibility criteria, visit: www.southend.gov.uk/extra-financial-help/essential-living-fund.
Schemes are also available for residents in Southend and Thurrock.
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