Issue - meetings

To consider the proposed scheme of distribution of Household Support Fund Phase 6.

The Committee received a report from the Strategic Lead, Independent Living on the Household Support Fund, Phase 6. A background into this process was provided in which at the Community Wellbeing committee on 28 November 2024, it was agreed to use Household Support Fund to subsidise the Meals on Wheels service. However, current guidance required the funds to be used within the year which would not have allowed sufficient time and was not legally advised. The alternative proposal was to now distribute the funds equally among the nine members of the Food and Welfare Network, giving each approximately £9,555 (out of the total allocation of £84,091). This approach will minimise administrative costs and will ensure a more efficient approach in supporting to residents.

In the timescales allocated, the Committee understood the rationale behind the preferred recommendation. It was also reiterated that an number of organisations in the food and welfare network already received substantial funding from Surrey County Council, separate to the Household Support Fund. The Committee queried the timescales for distribution and whether the members of the food and welfare network will be able to allocate funds by 31st March 2025 deadline. The Strategic Lead, Independent Living confirmed that the County had already been informed of the approach, and subject to Committee approval, funds will be transmitted instantly with confidence they will be used by 31 March 2025. Organisations were also required to provide updates to county on how the funding was making a difference.

The Committee additionally requested the names of the nine organisations in the food and welfare network be stated clearly in the report for future reference. The Strategic Lead, Independent Living agreed to this proposal.

Committee resolved to:

1.    Agree the proposed scheme of distribution of Household Support Fund Phase 6 as per preferred option 3.

2.    Agree that in the event of any funds being unallocated that they are moved to the “General Allocation Pot” at the end of March 2025.