Oldham residents in need of financial help will get the crisis support they need thanks to a commitment agreed by Oldham Council this week for 2026/27.
The funding will deliver more than £5.7 million of support, an increase of over £1 million on the previous Household Support funding. It is designed to provide immediate help for residents in crisis while investing in longer-term support to build financial resilience.
The fund will act as a safety net for lower-income households facing sudden financial shocks, while strengthening services that help people stay financially secure in the future.
From 1 April, the 12-month programme will fund a range of support, including Supermarket vouchers worth £15 at May half-term and £50 over the summer holidays for around 21,000 children eligible for Free School Meals, including pre-school children and college-age care leavers.
There will be a £1 million Crisis Payment scheme for residents facing sudden financial hardship, covering essentials such as food, energy and household items and a £500,000 Housing Payment scheme to support residents on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit who are at risk of homelessness due to shortfalls in housing costs.
There will be Help with rent deposits and tenancy bonds for households at risk of entering temporary accommodation and Community-based crisis support, including food, clothing and essentials, delivered through faith and voluntary organisations and coordinated by Action Together.
The scheme also includes Funding for Oldham Foodbank to maintain supplies throughout the year.
All support will be available via the Council’s ‘We Can Help’ webpage and promoted throughout the year, particularly during the autumn and winter months when demand is highest.
Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said:
“We know how tough things are for many residents right now, and for some, just one unexpected bill can push them into crisis. That’s not a personal failure; it reflects the real financial pressures families are facing.
“What makes this fund different is that it doesn’t just respond to crisis, it works to prevent it. We’ve listened to residents and frontline services and shaped support around what people actually need. Too many people are missing out on help they’re entitled to, and this fund allows us to reach them, rather than waiting for them to come to us.
“Supporting residents through difficult times is one of my top priorities, and this fund is about doing exactly that. If you’re struggling, please reach out. We are here to help.”
Residents can find out more at www.oldham.gov.uk/wecanhelp
- Call the Oldham Helpline: 0161 770 7007 (9am–5pm, weekdays)
- Visit the Customer Service Centre, Spindles Shopping Centre, West Street, Oldham (9am–5pm, weekdays)
