Decision details

The government recently announced a package of extra targeted financial support for those in need over the winter period. The COVID Winter Grant Scheme will see new funding issued to councils to support those most in need across England with the cost of food, energy and water bills and other associated costs. The council has received a funding allocation of £416,729 which will last until the 31st March. The report will contain details of the recommended use of the funding and scheme to support its distribution to those who need it most. Details about the scheme can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-winter-package-to-provide-further-support-for-children-and-families

Executive Member is asked to approve the uses for the funding and the scheme that will be adopted to distribute funding that meet the requirements set by government and local needs.

The Council aims to give 28 days notice for non-key decisions as it does for key decisions however on this occasion that has not been possible. This is to ensure that grants are awarded to recipients at the earliest opportunity.

Resolved: That approval be given to;

a)   The top slicing of the Winter Grant Government allocation in the sum of £200k for Free School Meals in respect of Christmas, February Half Term and the start of the Easter Holidays 2021.

b)   The Winter Grant scheme at Annex A to support families with or without children with Food and Utility bills through to 31^st March 2021.

c)   The additional spend of £3,810 for October Half Term Free School Meals as set out at Paragraph 9 of the report.

d)   The delegation for any future changes resulting from Government guidance in relation to this scheme to the Chief Finance Officer (s151) in consultation with the Executive Member Finance and Performance.

Reason:     To provide financial support to the city’s most financially vulnerable residents through the ongoing covid-19 pandemic.