EAST Renfrewshire Council has announced more than one million pounds in "vital" support funding to help residents.

It comes after the local authority revealed they have agreed on a package of measures totalling more than £1.54million to support services and locals recovering from the pandemic and in response to the cost-of-living crisis. 

The new funding comes in addition to more than £6million already distributed by the council from Scottish Government grants to support Covid recovery and renewal.

The most recent measures approved cover a wide range of projects including: 

  • Almost £700,000 to ensure that the HSCP can respond to increased volume and capacity needs.
  • £168,500 in winter support payments to low-income families.
  • More than £100,000 to extend Citizen Advice Bureau staffing, specifically supporting older people.
  • £80,000 to support tenants in financial difficulty and £100,000 to further help those facing homelessness.
  • Additional resourcing for community-led winter support activities.
  • £60,000 for the Food Dignity Network.

The cash has been provided by the Scottish Government to support pandemic recovery and renewal, with this being the final distribution of available funds.

Council Leader, Owen O'Donnell said: “Residents continue to face real struggles in the wake of the pandemic and still in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, so it’s reassuring that we’ve been able to extend our vital support measures as we head into the difficult winter months.

"The package includes financial assistance and allows Council and CAB staff to expand and build-on their support for residents, but it also aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable groups in our communities, many of whom suffered the most during the pandemic.

“We recently reviewed the effectiveness of the projects we’ve implemented to date and it was clear the funding has had a significant impact on the most vulnerable. From the distribution of £100 ‘Shop Local’ gift cards to over 4,500 low-income households to warm and welcome spaces, the initiatives have had a varied and wide-ranging impact.

"I would like to highlight the dedication of staff and the partnership working across all Council departments together with police, fire and third sector colleagues led by Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire; every partner is equally determined to support our residents in these difficult times.

"If you’re facing any struggles, including the increased cost-of-living, please get in touch and find out how the Council and our partners can help.”

To access support, click HERE.