Rutland Council says there is still time for people in Rutland to apply for its Winter Grants Scheme, which offers financial support to individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The scheme was first launched in December 2020 and provides access to financial support for utility bills, food and other related essentials. This includes Winter Food Payment vouchers for eligible households with children aged 0-19.

Coun Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council said: "After seeing an impressive uptake of residents applying for the Winter Grant Scheme, we're reminding those who may not have applied in December that there is still time to apply and receive financial support with food and household bills.

"This winter has been exceptionally tough. Job losses and cuts to working hours caused by the pandemic, together with the added cost of spending more time at home during the colder, darker months is putting pressure on household finances. We are encouraging anyone who may need support to apply for a grant before the scheme closes in March."

People who did not apply for a Winter Grant at Christmas but are a Rutland resident who meets the criteria can still apply for the February payment.

Residents are eligible to apply for a payment if they already receive one of the following benefits:

Income Support

Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance

Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

Child Tax Credit (provided you're not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190

Working Tax Credit run-on

Universal Credit

Households can find more information and apply for a Winter Grant until March 2021. Applications can be made online at: www.rutland.gov.uk/wintergrants.

Anyone with questions about the Covid-19 Winter Grant Scheme are asked to email [email protected].

Those who cannot complete the application form online, are asked to contact the council's Customer Services team by calling 01572 722 577.