Councillors to agree package of measures to support Lancashire residents
Councillors are set to sign off on the release of almost £900,000 as part of a package of measures to help households in Lancashire this autumn and winter.
The county council's approach to support residents and businesses facing rising cost of living are set out in a new report from Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Lancashire's Director of Public Health.
One of the core elements of the strategy is for the county council to facilitate multi-agency co-ordination and support district councils in leading a local response.
On Thursday, 6 October, Lancashire County Council's cabinet will be asked to endorse the approach, which includes the release of £896,000 from existing budgets and relevant grants to bolster existing initiatives that provide support to people in Lancashire.
This is in addition to the £1million affordable warmth scheme, which is commissioned by Lancashire County Council and delivered through district councils. Working with Cosy Homes in Lancashire, the scheme will provide access to home energy support such as boiler and insulation measures.
The county council is also developing Lancashire's Warm and Welcome Places scheme, which will see our libraries offering a warm and welcome space for residents.
Cllr Michael Green, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "We know there isn't a single measure that can solve all of the challenges we currently face, which is why we are working on a package of measures that builds on the significant support by the Government.
"We have doubled this year's allocation of funding for the affordable warmth scheme in Lancashire and now we are looking to provide an extensive, additional package of support. This will bolster existing initiatives and will be reliant on strong partnership working, something which is vital during these challenging times.
"Any additional measures will be developed in consultation with district councils, the Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector, NHS and wider partners as the situation evolves.
"I would also encourage everyone, and in particular those with an existing health condition, to get their flu jab as soon as possible."
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Lancashire County Council, said: "Protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents from increasing cost of living during this winter and coming months is a key priority for the council.
"While national policies remain central to supporting our residents and businesses, it is important that we endeavour to take steps locally to further support vulnerable residents.
"We will continue to monitor the local situation and liaise with national agencies in supporting our communities and businesses."
To read the cabinet report about this decision, select this link: Cabinet agenda – Thursday 6 October.