The cabinet member approves the following:
1. That the ongoing impact of the cost-of-living crisis, what it means for residents of Southwark, and the council’s ongoing approach to support residents in 2024/25 be noted.
2. To note the council’s £2.734m allocation from the Government’s Household Support Fund covering the period of October 2024 – March 2025 and its inclusion within a new Southwark Council Cost of Living Fund in 2024/25.
3. That the new Southwark Cost of Living response for the period October 2024 – March 2025 and the Cash First approach to the distribution of support (Help to pay bills) be approved.
4. That responsibility is delegated to the Strategic Director for Resources with delegated responsibility to make future amendments to the Southwark Cost of Living Fund in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Equalities Democracy and Finance.
5. To note other activities to support residents during the Cost-of-Living crisis including all the strands set out in the report.