COVID Local Support Grant extended to September

Families in England will receive extra support with food and key utility bills, thanks to the final extension of the government’s COVID Local Support Grant.

First introduced in December 2020, the grant has been extended through to September bringing it in line with the end date for furlough and other coronavirus-related support. This is beyond the planned ending of restrictions, to help families get back on their feet as the economy recovers and the vaccine rollout continues.

Since beginning of the scheme, support designed by councils has included food vouchers and help with heating costs over the winter months. The funding is ring-fenced so that 80 per cent is used to support families with bills for food, key utilities and other essentials.

With a new round of funding, councils will be able to continue this support and adapt their offer to suit the needs of families. Those who are in need of support should contact their council to find out how they can access it and what support will be available over the coming months.

Minister for Welfare Delivery Will Quince said: “This grant is ensuring that thousands of families get help with food and essential utility bills as we move back towards normality. The new funding extends this lifeline to those most in need in the coming months as we continue to help families back on their feet, including supporting people back into work through our multi-billion pound Plan for Jobs.”