Rutland County Council has launched a new COVID-19 Winter Grant Scheme, with funding being made available for eligible households to put towards bills, food and other essential items relating to food or energy, if they are struggling to make ends meet.

The COVID Winter Grant Scheme runs from 7 December 2020 to 31 March 2021, with an application deadline of 15 March 2021.

The COVID Winter Grant Scheme will provide eligible Rutland residents with financial support for utility bills (heating and water), food and other related essentials. Winter Food Payment vouchers for eligible households with children aged 0-19 will also form part of the Winter Grant package over Christmas and for the spring half term holiday.

Those families and individuals who qualify for the grant have been urged to submit their applications before the 14 December 2020 if they wish to receive Winter Food Payment vouchers in time for the Christmas break.

Councillor Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "This Winter will undoubtedly be a tough time for many of our residents, including those that find themselves in a new situation that may require help due to the pandemic – such as job losses or reduced working hours.

"We want all our residents who may find themselves in need of support to know that the COVID Winter Grant Scheme is available to help with food and household bills. As we head into winter. We are urging our residents to spread the message to those in need and that we do not want anyone to be concerned about how to feed their families or keep warm."

Rutland County Council will be working closely with Parish Councils, Citizens Advice, the Rutland Foodbank, Job Centre and other community and voluntary groups to identify those most in need of the additional support. Eligible individuals or families who receive support from local social and care services will also be encouraged to apply if they are looking for additional support over the winter.

The online application form for Winter Grants is now live and can be found online at: www.rutland.gov.uk/wintergrants. Further information about who is eligible to apply for a grant can also be found here.

Any individuals who may need support with the online application process can email: [email protected] for assistance. Anyone without internet access can call the Council on: 01572 722 577. Phone lines are open during office hours of 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Thursday and 8.30am and 4.30pm Friday.