More cost of living support proposed for approval

Residents struggling to meet basic living costs will continue to benefit from Oxfordshire County Council’s cost of living support, with a package of measures proposed for agreement by its cabinet on 19 November.  

The move follows the announcement by the government that the Household Support Fund will be extending from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.

Councillor Nathan Ley, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Inequalities and Community Safety, said: “Inflation has fallen significantly since it’s high of over 11 per cent in 2022. However, this does not reflect the real situation people face every day, particularly those on lower incomes.

“Many people are still struggling with everyday costs and are having to cut back on basics such as food and heating, and sadly this has a very real impact on people’s physical and mental health.

“This is why it’s so important that we can continue to provide vital support to households that need it the most.”

The programme will provide support to the following groups:

• Children and young people in receipt of free school meals will continue to receive them in during school holidays.
• City and district councils will receive additional funding for locally targeted support as in previous years.
• The Residents Support Scheme will continue ensuring anyone experiencing financial crisis can get assistance with basic household costs.
• Funding will be made available for low-income pensioners who have lost their winter fuel allowance.

Residents can learn more about support available to help with rising living costs by visiting Oxfordshire County Council’s dedicated webpage.