Hampshire County Council has unveiled a major £12.5 million support package to help struggling households across the county with the rising cost of living.
The funding, provided through the Department for Work and Pensions’ Household Support Fund, will run until March 2026 and forms part of the wider connect4communities programme. The initiative is aimed at low-income families and individuals facing financial hardship – offering help with essentials like food, fuel and household goods.
The support will reach a wide range of residents, including families with children, unpaid carers, care leavers, people with disabilities, pensioners and those impacted by sudden financial shocks.
Cllr Roz Chadd, Cabinet Lead Member for Children’s Services, said:
“This funding is a vital lifeline for many households across Hampshire. We are committed to ensuring that support reaches those who need it most – whether that’s help with heating bills, food, or essential household items.
“Our approach combines immediate relief with longer-term solutions to help build resilience and reduce future hardship.”
Breakdown of the Support Package
£5.6 million in direct crisis support:
- Grants to schools, early years settings and colleges to assist vulnerable families
- Utility bill support and eligibility checks via Citizens Advice East Hampshire
- Support for unpaid and young carers
- Exceptional housing cost support through district and borough councils
- Heating system repairs and energy support via The Environment Centre
£1.9 million in targeted County Council-led crisis help:
- Food vouchers, help with bills and household items for families and vulnerable adults
£1.5 million in preventative measures:
- Financial and digital inclusion advice
- Community wellbeing initiatives
- Support for Local Children’s Partnerships and Citizens Advice services
- Help for community groups seeking funding
£1.8 million in grants to local community organisations:
- Fuel and food poverty advice
- Assistance with essential household items (e.g. white goods)
- Support for local community pantries and similar initiatives
Over £1 million has also been allocated directly to Hampshire’s network of community pantries – membership-based schemes that offer low-cost food and reduce waste.
The remaining funds will be used for the administration and management of the programme, ensuring effective delivery across the region.
Hampshire’s £12.56 million share forms part of a wider £742 million national support package announced by the Government earlier this year.
For more details on how to access support locally, visit www.hants.gov.uk/connect4communities.