December support for people at 'higher risk' of food and fuel poverty

Third round of financial assistance for those receiving benefits

People at 'higher risk' of fuel and food poverty will be given further support in December.

A third round of financial support is being prepared by government for those receiving child benefit or certain income-related benefits.  

The money will follow £2.6 million which will be handed out in October.

Treasury says this will provide around 3,500 households with support to pay energy bills and approximately 6,000 families with support for living costs.

Minister Alex Allinson said: “Whilst we know everyone will feel the increases in the cost of living this winter those on lower incomes and those with children are particularly vulnerable.

“We know those on lower incomes will be harder hit as they spend a higher proportion on food and fuel costs compared to those on higher incomes.”