Households struggling to pay for food, energy and other essential items amid the rising cost of living could benefit from funds allocated to Rutland County Council through the Household Support Fund (HSF) this winter. 

 Those who will benefit include households whose children are entitled to free school meals. These families will receive food vouchers to use during the Christmas 2022 and February 2023 half term holidays. 

Others who are eligible for financial support will receive a voucher to help with energy and food bills. Those who fit the criteria for this payment will receive a letter in early December from Rutland County Council which they will take to the Post Office for the funds to be credited. 

Once letters and vouchers have been distributed, anyone else struggling to stay afloat this winter will be able to apply online for a grant which will be funded with the remaining money. The application will be available via the Rutland County Council website by mid-December. 

Rutland County Council's Portfolio Holder for Finance, Governance and Performance, Change and Transformation, Cllr Karen Payne, said: "The cost of living crisis is placing huge pressures on families across Rutland so we want to ensure the Household Support Fund can act as an additional support for as many people as possible during these difficult times. 

"The council will keep residents updated as to when they can apply for a discretionary grant through our council website."

For other ways in which the Council and other organisations can support residents can be found on the Rutland County Council website. Those who do not have access to the internet can pick up a booklet with all information and contact details at any Rutland library or the Council offices.