Amongst the wave of policy announcements from the new government was the recent news that the Household Support Fund, designed to provide some financial assistance for those most in need, is being extended until April next year.
It followed calls from local councils and charities to extend the scheme which, since 2021, has provided help for low income households struggling with the rising cost of living. There is no date yet for the start of the funding, but it will be soon and the date will be publicised on the council’s website, together with how to apply at tandridge.gov.uk/supportfund.
Some of the other support available locally:
- There are foodbanks at Caterham Baptist Church, Caterham; Oakhall Church, Caterham on the Hill and King’s Church, Oxted. More details at caterham.foodbank.org.uk/locations or call 01883 348385.
- St John’s church in Hurst Green has a community fridge which collects unused, but still edible, food which anyone can take. Call 01883 712674 for more details.
- Visit the Lingfield Larder at St Peter & St Paul’s Church, which is a community fridge in Lingfield distributing surplus free food.
- Warm Welcome venues are open to all residents this winter free of charge. They are in a variety of community spaces, including community and church halls, libraries and leisure centres. All you have to do is show up. Go inside, warm up and enjoy a hot drink. Energy advice and other information is also available. Find a list of venues in the district at surreycc.gov.uk or call 0300 200 1008.
- If you know someone who gets lonely sometimes, you might want to consider referring them to the Tandridge Community Companion scheme at tva.org.uk/befriending or call 01883 722593.
The Westway Centre in Caterham and the Salvation Army hold events over the festive period. And there is a free Christmas lunch at Hurst Green Community Centre for anyone who would otherwise be on their own at Christmas. Contact Deb Shiner on 07592 610449 for details.
If you have any comments/questions, please get in touch at: Cllr.Catherine.Sayer@tandridge.gov.uk.
