Herefordshire Council has received an allocation of £2,659,203.57 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) under the Household Support Fund.

In line with DWP guidance most of the funding should be earmarked to support those most in need and affected by the recent cost of living crisis. The decision to support vulnerable people with medical conditions that are facing fuel poverty would meet the recommended guidance.

Individuals with respiratory conditions tend to be at greater risk of poor health and more vulnerable to the colder weather. These individuals therefore typically need to spend more on their fuel bills in order to keep warm over the winter months and if they are not able to their health conditions can be exacerbated.

Individuals will be identified via a network of health professionals via referral into the ‘Keep Herefordshire Warm’ programme. This is to ensure those most in need are best placed to be in receipt of the funding.

Individuals referred to the scheme can receive up to £330 in energy support as well as receiving advice on how to reduce energy bills within their household. Individuals will also receive a support pack to reduce energy consumption. The support provided could benefit up to 230 households.