The government has confirmed a vital extension to financial support for vulnerable households, with a specific new payment announced for pensioners in the West Midlands.
Household Support Fund Extended for Another Year
The Labour Party government has announced it will extend the Household Support Fund for a full 12 months, from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. This national fund provides money for local councils to distribute to residents struggling with essential costs.
As part of this extension, Telford & Wrekin Council has been allocated a further £2.669 million. It is important to note that this sum represents a reduction compared to the funding received for the previous 12-month period.
£85 Supermarket Vouchers for Eligible Pensioners
In Telford and Wrekin, the council has outlined how a portion of this funding will be used. Alongside an application-based scheme for residents in crisis, the authority has committed to a direct support payment for a specific group.
The council stated it will use the funding to "support state pension-age residents who receive Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Reduction with one £85 supermarket voucher per household." These vouchers are scheduled to be issued in January 2026.
The local authority has advised that "We will contact residents directly who qualify with details of how to redeem their voucher." This means eligible pensioners do not need to apply; they will be contacted automatically.
Continued Support for Families and Those in Crisis
The council's plans also aim to continue supporting low-income families during school holidays. The funding will help provide food vouchers for children who are eligible for:
- Income-related Free School Meals
- The Pupil Premium
- Service Pupil Premium
- Talking 2's or Early Years Pupil Premium
For other residents facing severe financial hardship, an application process will remain open. Individuals can apply for a small grant, typically provided as a supermarket voucher or an energy voucher or direct payment.
However, Telford & Wrekin Council has issued a warning about high demand: "We are currently receiving a very high number of applications, so it is taking more than 7 working days for decisions to be made." They urge patience, promising to contact applicants as soon as possible.
For those in immediate need of food, the council directs residents to apply for a food parcel by calling 01952 380400.
