If you are a Herefordshire resident needing emergency support you may be eligible for help through our Local Welfare Provision scheme.

This scheme is intended to meet crucial needs of a person or household who is not eligible for the Crisis and Resilience Fund or has no other means of accessing essential items. We give each case careful consideration, which will include looking at other sources of help and support which may be available.

If you are eligible, we will offer help in one of the following ways:

• Providing quality, second-hand goods, wherever possible via direct referrals to suppliers
• Provision of food or vouchers (we are not able to provide cash or loans)
• Referrals to support organisations

If we identify that you are not claiming all the benefits you are entitled to, we will help you with your claim. You may also be directed to apply to the Department for Work and Pensions for a budgeting loan or advance. This may be instead of claiming support under this scheme.

With your permission we can also assess your support needs. This support, for example, could include:

• Access to help dealing with money worries and debt
• Referrals to other organisations that provide specialist advocacy and prevention services

To apply, please phone 01432 383838 during normal office hours. Phones lines are open Monday to Friday from 9am and closing at 4.15pm, except Thursdays when they close at 4pm.