Six in 10 councils will not be able to provide any additional funding for local welfare support if the household support fund comes to an end as in September, new polling has revealed.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has found that councils are “deeply concerned” about the fund ending as winter approaches.
Over four fifths of councils (84%) expect demand for welfare assistance to increase over the winter months, while just over two-thirds (67%) reported that local welfare funding administered by councils would decrease if the household support fund is withdrawn.
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The household support fund was extended in the Conservative government’s Spring Statement for six months, but it is currently due to expire at the end of September.
A spokesperson for the new government said:“This government will tackle the scar of poverty by making sure work pays and improving support to help people into good work. More details on the household support fund will be set out in due course.”
Councils say the fund plays an essential role in tackling disadvantage and and supporting communities, which is vital as people continue to struggle with the impact of the cost of living crisis.