HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUNDING AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS

Residents struggling to afford the essentials are being urged to apply for newly-available financial support.

Any household in receipt of council tax reduction or with a low income (earning less than a total of £40,000 per year) may be eligible for a one-off food voucher which can be used in a variety of supermarkets or online.

It’s been made possible by Household Support Fund money – provided by central government – being awarded to Folkestone & Hythe District Council by Kent County Council.

Cllr Tim Prater, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Governance, said: “The winter can be an incredibly challenging time for those who are struggling to feed their families and stay warm.

“The national Household Support Fund is there to offer support to those most in need. Locally we’ll work to get it into the hands of those that need it as soon as possible.”

Funds are limited and residents are asked to apply as soon as possible. To apply, and see full details of the criteria, visit the council’s website.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is already working with Kent County Council and other community partners to support residents to apply for help.

The Household Support Fund is just one element of the cost-of-living support available in the district. The council’s website has comprehensive information about the help being offered by other local organisations.