The Great Places Hardship Fund was set up to support customers facing financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once any other suitable provision has been exhausted, the fund ensures customers have access to emergency food, fuel and other essential items.
Great Places have helped many customers, here is how Ms Smith* a single mother of two was supported.
Up until the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, Ms Smith worked in a family-run café. However, at the start of lockdown, this was forced to close. Given the business’ finances, they were unable to make wage payments once the café closed. Ms Smith already claimed Universal Credit due to her income level but, despite her notifying the relevant authorities, there was a significant delay in the adjustment to her Universal Credit payment.
This left Ms Smith struggling to cover rent, fuel and food costs. She had been visiting Food Works for support and was able to get some financial assistance from her extended family, and but this wasn’t sustainable due to their financial concerns.
£100 was awarded from the Hardship Fund to support Ms Smith. This took the pressure off slightly, providing a much-needed bridge until her Universal Credit payments were increased.If you would like to know more about how the Hardship Fund may be able to help you, please contact your Neighbourhood Services Manager.
