New fund to help Sandwell residents

Sandwell Council has confirmed how millions of pounds will be spent supporting residents through the cost-of-living crisis in the coming months.

The new fund will also be used to give people the support, skills, and confidence they need to succeed.

The council has been awarded £7.6 million a year for the next three years. This will be used to support people through hard times while also helping them become more financially secure in the future.

The fund will help people when they face a financial emergency, such as struggling to pay for food, energy bills or other everyday essentials. It will also provide longer-term support to help residents access advice and manage their money, boost job prospects, and avoid future problems.

Councillor Gary Dale, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, said: "We want to make sure we make the most of this money to make a real difference for Sandwell residents. It’s about a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘handout’.

“Everyone can face hard times. A sudden bill, a change in circumstances or rising costs can quickly put pressure on household finances. We want people to know that support is available, and the council is here to help when you need it.

"We’re using this money to help people through a crisis, and also to set them up to succeed in the future. By targeting our support, and giving that hand up when it’s needed, we aim to make sure residents have the knowledge, skills and confidence to stay financially secure.”