Islanders most in need are being offered vouchers to help buy food during the cost of living crisis.
The scheme allows people to spend the one-off vouchers at one of the Island’s major supermarkets, or in one of the new community pantries.
Food voucher is worth £125
A food voucher worth £125 is available to applicants in receipt of Local Council Tax Support, and Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
Those in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and benefits-related Free School Meals or Early Years Pupil Premium can apply for a £50 food voucher.
Meanwhile, households in receipt of Local Council Tax Support with no children or pensioners can apply for a food voucher worth £25.
Apply online
Full details including how to apply for a voucher are available on the connect4communities Website.
Application forms can be completed online with paper copies also available from many community outlets, including libraries and some schools. A full list is available on the Website.
£1.1million Household Support Fund
Financed by the £1.1million Household Support Fund, the voucher scheme forms part of a package of new supportive measures to help households with children, the elderly and other residents who are struggling financially.
Andre: Please act now
Cllr Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children’s services, said,
“It is a worrying time for many people as rising food costs combine with soaring petrol and diesel prices and the hike in gas and electricity costs.
“It has left many people fearing how they will make ends meet.
“If you are struggling with the cost of living crisis, there is a range of support available for you, so please act now.
“Vouchers do not provide a sustainable longer-term solution to poverty, but can help to ease immediate financial pressures.
“We have therefore, working with our community partners, set up additional council initiatives which include support with the costs of utility bills through Citizens Advice, help with exceptional housing costs through the council and a broad range of community projects across the Island.”
Other means of support
Queries regarding the voucher scheme should be directed to 01983 823950 or [email protected]
The council continues to provide and signpost a range of dedicated support for residents who may be struggling financially, including:
- connect4communities
- The Isle of Wight Covid-19 helpline: 01983 823600
- Islehelp.me
- Citizens Advice: 0800 144 88 48 or citizensadviceiw.org.uk
- Help through crisis
- Mental health support: iwmentalhealth.co.uk and NHS111 or get medical help – NHS 111
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
