Older people in Peterborough struggling financially can get vital support.

This comes as the council confirmed that the city’s Household Support Fund (HSF) will be extended until March 2025.

The council has teamed up with local charity Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to launch a new initiative called ‘Older Adults Winter Support’ that will began on Monday, October 21.

Those who are struggling will be given £100 vouchers that can be spent at a number of outlets to help free up funds for heating and fuel costs throughout the winter months.

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Councillor Alison Jones, Peterborough City Council’s cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “We are all affected by the rising cost of living, but for some people the impact upon their lives is huge.

"With winter just around the corner we wanted to do something to specifically help older people who may be struggling and feeling vulnerable right now.

“I’m delighted that we have launched Older Adults Winter Support and would like to thank Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough for their help with this.

"As always, our message to anyone struggling is please get in touch because there is never any shame in asking for help.”

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To be eligible for the scheme, people must be aged 65 or over, living alone or with another person aged 65 or over, have a household income of less than £320 per week, savings of less than £10,000, and reside within the unitary authority area of Peterborough City.

Melanie Pittock, CEO for Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: "We are really pleased Peterborough City Council, like us, recognise the financial difficulties many local older residents are facing.

"Nobody should feel embarrassed to ask for support, and we encourage applications to this scheme."

For more information about the scheme, please call Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s team on 01733 564185 or email pbws@ageukcap.org.uk.