Cirencester Foodbank’s statement on the announcement of continued Household Support Funding in the March 2024 budget.

We are pleased at the announcement of the Chancellor, in today’s budget, that the Household Support Fund has been extended for an additional six months, providing crucial cost-of-living support to households in need. This extension comes as welcome news for people facing financial challenges.

While we acknowledge that the fund acts as a temporary measure—a mere “sticking plaster”—we recognise the importance of its continued existence. More comprehensive efforts are necessary to address the underlying issues faced by households struggling to make ends meet. However, in the interim, the Household Support Fund plays a vital role in ensuring that eligible households can access essential resources.

 Free School Meal Eligibility: The fund specifically benefits local families eligible for free school meals during the school holidays. These families often face heightened financial stress, especially during school holidays. Eligible families receive holiday vouchers during Easter, Christmas, and the summer. These vouchers, totaling £60 per child per year, provide relief for essential food expenses during school breaks.

 The loss of this funding would exacerbate the strain on our local foodbank. Already experiencing increased demand during school holidays, the foodbank plays a critical role in supporting families facing additional costs due to dependents and high childcare expenses.

The Household Support Fund remains a lifeline for many, and its continuation is essential to alleviate immediate hardships. However, we also urge policymakers and community leaders to continue working toward sustainable solutions that address income disparities and ensure long-term financial stability for all households.

The Trussell Trust, alongside the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, has launched a campaign, working towards more sustainable support, calling on the UK government to Guarantee our Essentials. Find out more about the campaign and how your food bank can get involved here -> Guarantee our essentials – The Trussell Trust

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