Emergency cash still available for residents affected financially by Covid-19

East Riding residents who are in need of financial help as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic are being urged to apply for cash funds from East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

The council has been given an amount of funding from central government to help support those residents most in need whose income has been reduced because of the coronavirus.

The new Emergency Assistance scheme has been running since August, but funding is still available and those who need help are being urged to apply now.

The money can be used towards essential items such as food and toiletries, gas and electric bills, nappies for children, and also travel costs to work or pre-booked hospital appointments.

Eligible applicants must have experienced a reduction in their income of at least 20% which is the result of COVID-19 and do not have savings available to afford essential items.

Councillor Lyn Healing, portfolio holder for community involvement and council corporate services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "We know Covid-19 has had a major effect on many residents' finances and there are people out there who need financial help.

"We've been given this funding specifically to help residents who need a hand paying for essential items or towards travel costs.

"I would urge them to please get in touch with the council and find out if they are eligible to apply for these funds, because we really do want to help."

The council already runs its own separate emergency assistance scheme, where it can support residents who have had an interruption to their income and need financial help.

Emergency assistance may be awarded to an applicant who is aged over 16, has their main residence within the East Riding of Yorkshire Council boundary and does not have the resources to meet their or their family's immediate short-term needs.

To apply or get more information on the Emergency Assistance scheme, including terms and conditions, visit the website www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/emergency-assistance or call the council's benefits contact centre on 01482 394799.