The funding is aimed at ensuring that everyone in the borough can keep warm and eat well during challenging times
In a bold move to combat the cost-of-living crisis, Richmond upon Thames has allocated £4.5 million to support residents struggling to make ends meet. The funding is aimed at ensuring that everyone in the borough can keep warm and eat well during challenging times. With targeted initiatives spanning fuel grants, benefit awareness campaigns, and food support, the council is stepping up to provide relief to thousands of households.
Identifying Unclaimed Benefits
To maximize the financial aid available to residents, the council launched a support calculator and rolled out targeted letter campaigns. These efforts have uncovered an impressive £1.4 million in unclaimed benefits, helping residents access funds they were entitled to but had not previously claimed.
Last winter, the council’s annual Fuel Grant Scheme reached record levels of support, providing £225,000 to households across the borough—a significant £78,000 increase from the previous year. A total of 1,326 households were granted £170 each, which was directly deducted from their energy bills via utility companies. Applications for this year’s scheme have now closed, and payments are set to be processed in the week commencing 10 February 2025.
Supporting Low-Income Pensioners
The council is also addressing gaps in government assistance for pensioners. Low-income pensioners who no longer qualify for the government’s Winter Fuel Payment will receive a £100 grant if they are eligible for a Council Tax Reduction but not Pension Credit. In addition, a targeted campaign is underway to ensure pensioners eligible for Pension Credit—which can provide an average of £3,900 annually—are aware of and claiming the benefit.
To further support energy efficiency, the council has funded 2,075 warm home packs designed to help households save up to £200 annually. These packs, available to households with incomes below £40,000 and an EPC rating of D or lower, include energy-saving items like LED light bulbs, radiator foil, and draught-excluding tape. Eligible residents can collect their packs from the Civic Centre in Twickenham.
Expanding Food Support Services
Food security remains a top priority, with a network of support services in place to help residents access affordable or free meals. Richmond Food Bank operates across seven borough sites, while initiatives like the Real Junk Food Project run pay-as-you-feel surplus cafés. Additional programs, such as Cooking Up classes and free or low-cost community lunches, provide residents with practical solutions for nutritious meals. The council has also distributed food vouchers to 4,630 children during school holidays, allocating £583,000 to support families in need.
In October, the council introduced Money Hubs, a financial advice and support service launched through a roadshow at Whitton Community Centre. Insights from this pilot event are shaping future outreach plans to ensure vulnerable residents can easily access financial assistance and guidance.
Community Spaces Offer Warmth and Connection
A network of Community Spaces has been established to provide safe and friendly environments where residents can connect with others, share a meal, or simply stay warm. These spaces are part of the borough’s extensive Cost of Living Directory, which outlines more than 80 support services, including food aid and advice programs.
The council’s commitment to supporting residents is evident through its wide-ranging initiatives. Highlights of the borough’s cost-of-living support include:
£865,000 allocated for Community Spaces and food support.
Over 45,000 updates sent via email to residents subscribed to cost-of-living support services.
A total of £20,900 allocated to assist low-income pensioners affected by the government’s Winter Fuel Payment cuts. This comprehensive approach underscores Richmond upon Thames’ dedication to ensuring no resident is left behind as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact communities across the UK. For more information on the borough’s initiatives, visit t
