Sefton Council is writing to pensioners who qualify for Council Tax Reduction across the Borough to tell them they could qualify for an extra ÂŁ80 to help with the cost of living.
After receiving funding from the Government through the Household Support Fund, the Council is using of the money to make a one-off ÂŁ80 payment to Sefton pensioners who qualify for Council Tax Reduction.
Post Office
To collect the Household Support Fund payment, Sefton pensioners receiving the letter need to take it to any Post Office. They also need to take along any TWO of the following items as proof of identity:
- Passport or driving licence
- Council Tax Bill
- DWP or Housing Benefit award Letter
- Bus Pass or other photo ID card
- Current utility or household bill
- Signed Post Office / Bank card
- Bank Statement
Proof of identity
The Post Office will issue the payment in cash. The name and address on the proof of identity must be the same as that shown on the letter, and payment must be collected within one month of the date on the letter. After this, the payment will no longer be valid.
The Household Support Fund has been created to provide help with significantly rising living costs including increases in energy costs, food, and water bills. The grant is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and can be used specifically to help pensioners with essential costs such as energy, food and water.
Much-needed
Cllr Paul Cummins, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care said: “With many local people struggling to cope with the spiralling cost-of-living, I am pleased that Sefton Council, is able to distribute this much-needed additional funding for local pensioners. We are using the Household Support Fund to try and make sure that those most in need in receive support.
“If people are experiencing severe hardship, a disaster or emergency, details of our Emergency Limited Assistance Scheme can be found at www.sefton.gov.uk/household-support.”
Housing Support Fund payments are being made from a cash-limited fund, which closes shortly. Further payments cannot be made once the Fund is closed.
You can find more about Cost of Living support and advice here.
In July 2019 Sefton Council declared a Climate Emergency. It was then agreed that the Council resolves to reduce operational emissions to net zero by 2030. This new consultation will enable the Council to understand better the needs of Sefton residents, business owners, organisations and investors, as it makes further decisions on tackling climate change.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Chair of Member Reference Group on Climate Emergency said “Climate change affects everyone, and we are already seeing the impacts on our beautiful borough. It is vital to hear the views of the public so we can work together to reduce our carbon emissions. This consultation is for everyone, and can help define our future.”
