'Enormous concern' that many Birmingham residents will struggle in winter despite government funding

An extension of a vital government lifeline has been welcomed despite “enormous concern” that some Birmingham residents may struggle during the winter.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Spring Budget confirmed last month that the Household Support Fund (HSF) would be extended for six months – but the decision was previously described as a “short-term reprieve” by the leader of Birmingham City Council (BCC).

The fund sees the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) distribute funding to local councils, who then work with partners to distribute the funds to households who are in most need of essentials such as food and energy.

The new round of funding, totalling more than £12 million, is now set to be used to invest further in the Warm Welcome network, provide energy support, support young people with additional care needs and more.

At a BCC cabinet meeting on Thursday, April 4, councillors said they were concerned that families in Birmingham could risk hardship in the coming winter months.

Karen McCarthy, cabinet member for Children, Young People and Families said: “While this funding is very welcome, the fact it is only until September gives us enormous concern for how residents are going to get through the winter.”

Councillor Rob Pocock added: “A sticking plaster is better than an open wound I guess but it is a welcome contribution.

“Let’s have a look at this over the summer and we all have our fingers crossed that a further announcement will come later in this year to deal with the winter.”

Deputy leader Sharon Thompson also said she was concerned by the possibility of there being no funding for the winter months during an “ongoing cost-of-living crisis.”

“We know these are challenging times,” she added.

Cllr Jayne Francis, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, meanwhile said she was pleased that £950,000 is set to be spent on “current pressures in temporary accommodation”.

“I think anything that is going to alleviate the difficulties that some of our residents are experiencing in Birmingham is to be welcomed,” she continued.

Regarding the HSF, Councillor John Cotton, leader of Birmingham City Council, said last month: “After months of uncertainty for struggling families, I am relieved that the Chancellor has finally heeded warnings from councils of all political control, charities, foodbanks and community organisations and has extended the Household Support Fund for six months.

“Sadly, this is no more than a short-term reprieve for the millions of families up and down the country who are struggling to make ends meet thanks to the Tory cost-of-living crisis, and I would urge the Government to confirm that much needed support will not be withdrawn when it is most needed next winter”.

A DWP spokesperson said last month: “With inflation more than halved and forecast to reduce further it is right that we focus on our long-term plan to help people back into work and grow the economy, while continuing to provide support to those who need it most.

“The boost to the Household Support Fund announced at the Spring Budget will give vital, targeted support to millions of vulnerable households.

“We are also uprating benefits by 6.7 per cent from April, raising the National Living Wage and cutting taxes by £900 a year for 27 million employees.”