Food vouchers for Hampshire's most in need
The one-off payments are aimed at struggling pensioners and families
Last updated 23rd Aug 2022
Food vouchers are now a part of the support to help Hampshire residents who may be struggling with the rising cost of living.
The vouchers, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions’ Household Support Fund, are being accessed across the county throughout August and September – distributed by Hampshire County Council to residents via the county’s 11 district and borough councils.
Households eligible for Local Council Tax Support are entitled to a one-off £30 voucher, while a one-off £65 voucher will be made available to pensioners in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and Pension Credit or Guaranteed Credit. Those who are eligible for a voucher will be contacted directly by their local council.
Councillor Roz Chadd, Hampshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “At a time when there is increasing financial pressure on household finances, I’m pleased that the Government has enabled us to extend how we use our Household Support Funding to help more people facing hardship, including pensioners as well as families with children.
“We have all seen a significant rise in the costs of groceries and other essentials in recent months. Together with the supportive measures already in place, I hope these vouchers will provide those in need with welcome additional financial help.”
In total, the County Council has allocated more than £3 million to food vouchers which will be issued by district and borough councils throughout August and September.
As well as food vouchers, the County Council has also made £365,000 available for Community Grants to support other projects helping vulnerable families and pensioners with their food and energy bills. Projects include:
• Victim Care Support, Winchester which has been supporting its families with food vouchers;
• Meet and Eat, New Forest which is providing a support group, where families can learn to cook a healthy meal for free;
• Roman Way Primary School, Test Valley which is to provide a breakfast club, where children will be able to enjoy a free breakfast before school;
• Headley Down Food Bank which is providing provisions such as food and utility support to the local community.
Other measures being funded by the Community Grants include community pantries, utility vouchers and emergency housing support.
There are currently over 20 pantries across Hampshire, all providing weekly access to a range of fresh, frozen and general food at a lower cost than at the supermarket. Residents can search for their local pantry here.
Vouchers for gas, electricity and water services are available via Citizens Advice, whilst help with housing costs is available in exceptional circumstances and is being organised through Hampshire’s District and Borough Councils.