There is a cost-of-living crisis in the UK resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already in poverty, people in Herefordshire will be forced to make tough decisions about when and what they eat, what they can do in life, and when they can afford to heat their home.

Funding towards the preventative support programme is available as part of the Household Support Fund, to enable community hubs and organisations across Herefordshire to provide preventative support for residents that are potentially at risk of falling into financial crisis or further into financial crisis. We will invite local community organisations to deliver sessions and activities that alleviate financial stress, improve wellbeing and prevent poverty locally. The offer must engage with financially vulnerable residents in Herefordshire and make a measurable impact on those residents’ financial resilience and wellbeing.

Herefordshire Council has received an allocation of £1,329,601.78 from the Department of Works and Pensions under the next phase of the Household Support Fund which will run from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025. The expectation is that the funding should be used primarily to support households in the most need.

This scheme will form part of wider offer that is being developed as part of the allocation of the Household Support Fund.

Between March and May 2024, 300 people per day were declared insolvent or bankrupt in England and Wales. Additionally, the Citizens Advice Bureau in England and Wales handled 1,183 debt-related issues daily during the year leading up to May 2024.

By utilising government funding for preventative support, there will be a positive impact on vulnerable residents at risk of financial crises. This support will help individuals become more resilient and less likely to fall into debt. Research highlights direct links between financial management and the effects on physical and mental wellbeing. Preventative support empowers participants with knowledge about financial services, enabling them to prepare for life events, address financial difficulties, and build resilience. These outcomes are expected to positively affect their overall wellbeing.