To seek approval for the launch of hardship schemes to residents and businesses whose homes or business premises have been flooded.

The hardship schemes would consist of a Community Recovery Grant, equivalent to £500 per eligible household, to help families with their immediate recovery and a Business Recovery Grant, which will provide up to £2,500 per eligible small and medium-sized business.

That:

(a)  The council adopts for households and businesses affected by the floods in October and November 2019, the Community Recovery Grant Scheme and the Business Recovery Grant Scheme in appendix one with a budget up to £225,000; and

(b)  the Acting Assistant Director Highways & Transport / Head of Infrastructure Delivery be authorised to determine grants in accordance with the scheme criteria.

1.         Not to approve the hardship schemes has the potential to prevent Herefordshire households and businesses from recovering from and meeting the costs associated with the damage caused by the exceptional weather.