Household Support Fund extension is welcome but Government needs to find long-term solution

Responding to the extension to the Household Support Fund, Carers Trust's Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Ramzi Suleiman, said:

“We welcome the Government’s extension to the Household Support Fund, something Carers Trust and others have been calling for."

"Today’s news will be met with relief from thousands of unpaid carers who have relied on it as a lifeline during the cost of living crisis."

"Around two-thirds of all unpaid carers have either had to give up paid work or cut back on working hours because of their caring role."

"This has pushed many of them into poverty at the same time as they’ve seen their bills rocket. The fund has been a vital financial safety net for many of them."

“However, the Government needs to go further. We urge the Government to rethink its plans to restrict the Winter Fuel Payments which may plunge many older carers into fuel poverty."

"The extension to the fund is good news but we can’t keep relying on short-term schemes that could be axed at any moment and don’t tackle the deeper issues."

"Instead, the Government needs to work with charities and local government on a long-term solution to funding local welfare schemes. It’s the only way to ensure those facing the deepest financial hardship are properly supported.”