Executive endorses updated financial hardship action plan

The updated financial hardship action plan, which runs until March 2024, was agreed last night at the meeting of the council’s executive.

The council recognises that residents are still facing financial challenges, especially with the rise in the cost of food and utilities. A key aspect of the action plan outlines the council’s actions to mitigate the effects of financial hardship.

The plan includes support mechanisms for this winter that address:

• those who need support with food and fuel poverty
• communicating help available to those in need and specifically targeting minority ethnic groups, those facing domestic abuse and those with mental health challenges
• how the council will continue to work with the voluntary, community and faith sector organisations in the borough to support people in need

The report also focuses on community projects to improve the health of residents and reduce health inequalities that increased since the pandemic. These projects include a boost in welfare support, development of a network to combat social isolation and an expansion of homelessness support.

Cllr Mary Temperton, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council and Executive Member for Climate Change and Council Strategy, said:

“Over the past year we have distributed over £900,000 of financial support.

“The funding has largely been used for food vouchers for families receiving free school meals, grants for people needing help with essential living costs and supporting local charities to extend their work with those in need.

“We are committed to reaching the people that need our help and our updated plan will help us to do this.

“If you or someone you know is struggling as a result of the cost-of-living, please visit our website for help.”

For more information about the Financial Hardship Action Plan and the available support, visit the cost of living support pages.