WEST Devon Borough Council is stepping up support for care leavers and other residents who need a helping hand, with a new package of financial support made possible through Government’s Household Support Fund.

Backed by a £196,000 allocation from Devon County Council – part of a national £742 million support scheme, the Council will prioritise direct support for care leavers, carers, low-income families, and veterans, while also investing in local organisations delivering support for its communities.

Recognising the unique challenges faced by young adults leaving the care system, the Council has pledged £500 direct support payments in both July and December 2025 to all eligible care leavers living in the Borough. Those identified after July will also receive the same level of support on a rolling basis through to March 2026.

Councillor Jane Elliott, Lead Member for Community Wellbeing, at West Devon Borough Council said: “Care leavers often face life’s challenges without the family networks many of us rely on. That’s why we are going further than the minimum required – to act as any good parent would, offering practical support to help them thrive.”

Alongside care leavers, the Council will also provide £150 in financial support to:

• Families with three or more children who are receiving Council Tax Reduction.

• Residents with caring responsibilities receiving a Council Tax carers discount.

Each of these households will receive two payments – one in July and another in December 2025 – helping to ease financial pressure through the year.

The Council is also providing targeted grants to community organisations that support residents most in need:

• £5,000 to Homemaker Southwest – to offer benefits advice, debt support, and budgeting help.

• £15,000 to Tamar Energy Community – to continue their vital work addressing energy efficiency, damp and mould, and heating issues.

• £10,000 to SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity – to assist veterans facing hardship.

Cllr Elliott continues: “Our community organisations are at the heart of helping residents through difficult times. By supporting them, we can reach people more effectively and offer the kind of practical, personalised help that really makes a difference.

“This support is not just about responding to immediate needs — it’s our wider ambition to create lasting change and provide ongoing care for those who need it most in West Devon.”

The rest of the Household Support Fund will be released in three stages throughout the year. This open application scheme means residents can apply for help when they need it.