Rochdale Borough Council has invested a further £4.1m to support residents with their cost of living.
At the cabinet meeting on Thursday 17th April, councillors approved a new comprehensive package of measures aimed at assisting those in greatest need.
The council will be utilising funding from the government’s Household Support Fund, which has been extended until March 2026.
This latest package of measures forms part of the council’s Helping Hand campaign, which delivers cost of living support for older residents, vulnerable individuals and young families.
The council’s latest support package includes:-
• The continuation of the food voucher scheme during school holidays
• Housing energy support including emergency heading and boiler replacements, helping to reduce residents’ utility costs
• The continuation of the council’s Digitech Library
• Supermarket and fuel vouchers for those most in need
• Advice and support for residents to enhance their digital skills
The food voucher scheme, which has been in place for five years, will again be delivered for 16,000 children in Middleton, Heywood, Rochdale and the Pennines who are eligible for free school meals, or have been identified through children’s services.
Councillors agreed to the continued support of the borough’s food network, which comprises over 30 local groups providing food bank, food clubs and food pantries. In addition, the council will deliver grants for organisations in the borough to supply residents with essential household items.
The package of measures also includes additional resources for the voluntary and charity sector to provide welfare advice and mental wellbeing support for residents.
Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of the council, said: “This is a wide-ranging and comprehensive package of measures, which underlines the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting our most vulnerable residents with their cost of living.
“I am proud that the government extended the Household Support Fund, something I campaigned for, providing vital additional support for thousands of our residents in greatest need. This is another really good example of the council working in partnership with the government to help improve the lives of our most vulnerable residents. My message is clear, if you need a helping hand with your cost of living, get in touch and we will support you.”
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