Support for Rotherham's most vulnerable

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council has laid out how it will support the borough's most vulnerable people for the 2025/26 financial year.

The council has been allocated £4.387 million from the government's 'Household Support Fund', and will put all this money towards supporting those who struggle the most.

Rotherham Council's cabinet will approve the spending when it meets on Monday 14th April.

What support is being provided?

• A total of £2.687 million is set aside to ensure Free School Meals will continue, including during the school holidays. From May half-term to Easter 2026, 13,500 children will still benefit from free school meals vouchers.
• 2,000 grants of £250 will be issued to residents who struggle to pay their energy bills through the autumn and winter months. This s through the Council's energy support scheme and is worth £500,000.
• The Local Council Tax scheme will receive £950,000. This will allow 14,400 of low income working age households to receive discounts on their council tax bill of up to 100%
• Young people leaving foster, or local authority, care will benefit from this fund too. £90,000 has been allocated to support them live independently in their own homes.
• £60,000 has been proposed to support the voluntary and community sector. This will provide support for vulnerable families over the Christmas and New Year period.
• 4,000 parcels of household essential items such as hygiene products will be made available. This is set to cost £100,000.