Household Support Grant Available

Through the Household Support Grant, Bedford Borough Council is offering a grant to Bedford Borough residents who get 100% Council Tax Support, to help those facing the biggest impact of the growing cost pressures for food, energy and other necessities.

The Council's Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme provides a Council Tax Support discount of 100% to households on a low income. These households are those most likely to be most vulnerable and in need of additional support during the winter with the cost of food and utilities.

The Government Household Support Grant is in place to support vulnerable households to meet daily needs. The Council will be offering the grant to those households that receive 100% Council Tax Support, via a £50 grant payment, to prioritise those needing support the most.

In addition to those who get 100% Council Tax Support, people who do not pay Council Tax (for example if they live in a shared house) but who would be eligible for 100% Council Tax Support otherwise, are also entitled to this grant.

This grant is in addition to shopping vouchers being offered to families eligible for income related free school meals during holidays.

Councillor Michael Headley, Portfolio Holder for Finance said "Our aim with this Household Support Grant is to quickly assist those where this help will make the biggest difference with the growing cost pressures they are facing. That is why we are giving school holiday time shopping vouchers to families with children that qualify for free school meals, as well as offering this £50 winter grant payment to those who receive 100% Council Tax Support. As we don't hold bank details for people who receive Council Tax Support, we do need people to get in touch with us. There is a simple form on our website via https://www.bedford.gov.uk/social-care-health-and-community/public-health/coronavirus/coronavirus-financial-help-for-residents/ to help make it as easy as possible to access this money."