Anger over Decision to Scrap Hardship Fund

The scrapping of a Government fund used by councils to provide emergency support will make it increasingly difficult to help vulnerable people facing short-term crises, local authorities are warning. The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, is calling for Government to rethink its decision to scrap the £347 million Local Welfare Assistance Fund (LWAF).  Councils are concerned that the withdrawal of Government funding for local emergency support schemes may leave some areas unable to afford to help out families in crisis. This could lead to short-term problems escalating. The LWAF is currently used by local authorities to give emergency and financial help to people facing crisis situations, including families under the threat of homelessness or domestic abuse. It has paid for food vouchers for people struggling to afford to eat and basic household essentials. Read more on the LGA website.