Help is available with the costs of utility bills like gas, electric and water this winter.
Dorset Council is working to get help mainly to vulnerable families and children across the county, after being awarded up to £922,153 from the government’s Covid Winter Grant Scheme.
This forms part of the Reaching Out campaign to support people struggling financially because of the impact of COVID-19.
The help available is being targeted mostly at vulnerable families. Dorset Council is asking them and other people who need help to apply for support online now.
You can also call on 01929 775500 to apply. The programme is being administrated by Citizen’s Advice Dorset.
Some of the money will be used to make sure families who need it, including those who receive free school meals, receive food vouchers during the Christmas holidays and February half term. Families will receive this help direct from their school.
Cllr Jane Somper, Dorset Council Lead Member for Safeguarding, said: “I urge families, and others, who need support this winter with essential bills like heating, to apply online for help or get in touch by ringing our helpline
“These are difficult times and helping our most vulnerable families, who have been hard-hit by the pandemic, is vital. We are working with schools and other organisations like Citizens’ Advice to get help and support out to those who need it.”
At least 80 per cent of the Covid Winter Grant will be used to help vulnerable families in Dorset, some of the remaining 20 per cent will either be used to support other vulnerable residents across the area or will also be spent supporting families.
Check out information about how to apply for free school meals.
Support and advice for all residents, including information about accessing food and other financial support is available here: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/reaching-out
