New support for struggling households this winter

Many people are struggling with bills due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis

People struggling to pay their bills and stay warm this winter are being offered help to pay for essentials.

Somerset Council's Help Through Winter funding will provide residents with vouchers to use towards bills, grants for furniture and to fund food banks.

All of the county's libraries are also being used as "warm spaces" which people can use throughout the day, the council said.

Councillor Sarah Wakefield said: "We know many residents are feeling the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis and that the winter weather can put extra costs on struggling households."

The council's funding, which has come from the government's Household Support Fund, will be handed to charities and local organisations, which will then pass on the money to vulnerable residents.

An additional £500m has been invested into the fund for local authorities around the country to support those most in need throughout the colder months.

Helping communities

Ms Wakefield added: "Our priority is to ensure we use the funding from central government to help as many people as possible.

"That's why we're distributing so much of it directly to local organisations and charities.

"They will ensure the funds reach our communities in the most efficient way."

She encouraged residents to "explore all options, and take up the support that's there".