Barnardo’s charity has warned that the closure of the Household Support Fund could be devastating for the thousands of vulnerable families who rely on it. Over 160 councils have reported that without the fund, these families will face a cliff edge of support. However, the government has said that other benefits will rise to help cover living costs. The fund has provided a safety net for those in need in the form of food banks, warm spaces, and direct cash for over two and a half years.
Osaretin and Israel Osemota, who received help from the fund, are just one of many families who will be affected by the closure. The couple were able to receive support through the Homestart Host grant from Oldham Council, which they spent on baby formula, nappies, and energy bills for their three newborns. Lauren Forrester from Homestart Host said that for many families, this support is essential for basic essentials such as food and heating a home to raise small children.
Ruth Welford, assistant director for Barnardo’s, stated that this scheme has helped many families and has become a vital lifeline. She goes on to say that the cost of living crisis is far from over and that it is critical that the fund continues. Last month, over 120 organizations wrote to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt urging him to extend the scheme for at least another year. A cross-party group of 160 councils has also called for the fund to be extended, saying it is a vital lifeline for many people.
The fund is due to end in four weeks’ time unless a turnaround is announced in this week’s budget. Government spokespersons claimed that other benefits and the Local Housing Allowance would rise to compensate for the ending of the fund. For many families, this could mean sliding back into poverty and facing challenges such as destitution, homelessness, and healthcare issues, compounding the pressure on already overstretched public services
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