Basingstoke ObserverWITH the cost of living set to rise even further tomorrow, knowing where you can find support is more important than ever.
As the cap on energy prices is increased, there are a number of initiatives being offered to families and communities to aid the cost of living crisis and support local initiatives.
From April, 95% of households will receive a payment of £150 as a Council Tax rebate, those who pay by direct debit will receive the money via a direct debit transfer. For those who do not pay by direct debit, the council should contact you to arrange payment.
Five new Community Pantries are opening in Hampshire with support from the connect4communities programme, led by Hampshire County Council. Local pantries opening include: The Tadley and District Community Association, in Tadley and Popley Fields Community Association, in Basingstoke.
Each pantry will help families who are facing hardship to access food at reduced prices.
Community pantries work by offering access through membership and, for a small weekly contribution, members can select food and essential supplies to a significantly higher value. For example, for a charge of £5 members receive food worth £15.
Councillor Roz Chadd, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “Community pantries are a lifeline for many people. Being able to get groceries at a lower rate than can be found anywhere else means vulnerable families can access basics like food, which many of us take for granted. By providing this ‘helping hand’ approach community pantries can help people who find themselves in a difficult financial situation. Rising costs and economic uncertainty means many Hampshire families are struggling to cope, so this provision has never been more important.”
As well as stocking a range of fresh, frozen and general foods, some pantries offer meal deals and recipe ideas designed to encourage healthy eating habits. Some also work with Citizens Advice and other charities to provide support on budgeting, wellbeing, adult learning and employment.
For more information about connect4communities and the community pantries project visit www.connect4communities.org
In a separate initiative, communities across Hampshire are being invited to apply to Hampshire County Council for support from the Leader’s Community Grants Scheme - which can help fund projects designed to help communities thrive.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Keith Mans, explained: “These grants can be used to support projects that will make a big difference in the heart of communities. Local groups and organisations are in the best position to understand what is needed in their area and I urge them to come forward and apply for funding. The purpose of these grants is to help communities thrive while also enabling organisations to become financially independent.
As the cost of living continues to rise and more people face increased hardship, this financial support will give many vulnerable residents new opportunities and a brighter future.”
Applications are now open for the financial year 2022/23.
Those wishing to apply should visit the Leader’s Community Grants web page.
The scheme will consider applications between £1,000 and £25,000 to use for activity costs and/or capital costs. Amounts in excess of £25,000 will occasionally be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Applications are welcomed at any time and will be dealt with on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
If you are struggling with debt, free face-to-face advice is available in Basingstoke to help you.
Money Lifeline is a free debt advice charity offering confidential advice to sort out debt and related money problems.
Advice is provided by a team of friendly and helpful volunteers, trained and supported by a national debt advice charity. The service is confidential, free and available to everyone.
The local charity is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Debt can seem too difficult to deal with but the sooner you ask for advice, the easier the solution. Phone, text or email to leave your details and let the Money Lifeline team know how to get back to you. Email: [email protected], call 01256 351026 or text 07954 040961.
