Support with the cost of living is still available this summer with financial support, help to get enough to eat and keep cool, plus useful tips to keep costs low.
South Gloucestershire Council is relaunching its What’s On Your Plate? campaign to provide residents with advice to save money and reduce food waste along with information on how to access grants and other financial support ahead of the summer months. There are also 500 cool packs available for those most in need of some extra help.
The cool packs are funded through the government’s Household Support Fund and follows the distribution of warm packs over the last few winters and cool packs over recent summers. Heat can be just as dangerous as the cold for some people, especially older residents and young children, and the cool packs contain items which may help to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and stay a safe, comfortable body temperature.
There are two different types of bags available to collect for free from the council’s One Stop Shops and children’s centres, as well as from some charities and partner organisations. Family bags contain adult and children’s caps and water bottles, ice lolly moulds, ice packs, a handheld fan and a cooling pad. Adult bags are also available and all contain lots of information about support available.
Cool packs are being provided to support those who are struggling with everyday essentials including keeping their homes cool during the summer months due to high energy costs. To collect a cool pack, you must be a resident of South Gloucestershire. You will not be asked to show bank statements but will be asked some questions about your financial situation.
Councillor Alison Evans, cabinet member responsible for the cost of living at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “The costs of living are still high and we are committed to helping all our residents eat well and stay cool during the summer months. Last year we provided over £2.6 million in financial support.
“No one should have to worry about getting enough food or keeping themselves at a comfortable temperature. We have emergency and long-term grants available from the Household Support Fund to get help so please do contact us or pop into a One Stop Shop. There is no shame in asking for help and we will treat everyone with respect and dignity.”
During the summer term, a number of pop-up events will be held at school pick-up times so parents and carers can collect information and ask questions of the team. Larger community roadshows will be held in shopping centres over the summer, including:
Thursday 31 July – Superhero Day at Willow Brook, Bradley Stoke – 11am to 4pm
Thursday 7 August – Kings Chase shopping centre, Kingswood – 10am to 2pm
Thursday 14 August – Yate shopping centre – 10am to 2pm.
For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/CostOfLiving, visit a One Stop Shop in Kingswood, Patchway or Yate or call freephone 0800 953 7788.
To apply for a grant from the Household Support Fund visit www.southglos.gov.uk/household-support-fund
A video is available at https://youtu.be/EhRNqFfWagY
