Council boosts support for care leavers and vulnerable groups

Issued: 17 July 2025

South Hams District Council is supporting care leavers and other residents who need a helping hand, through a new package of financial support made possible through the Government’s Household Support Fund.

Part of a national £742 million support scheme, £297,896 has been allocated through Devon County Council for the South Hams. The District Council has chosen to prioritise direct support for care leavers, carers and help low-income families buy school uniform. Thereby investing and supporting local organisations and communities.

Recognising the rising costs of buying school uniform, the Council has promised direct support to low-income families to help with buying school uniform and new shoes for the coming year. Vouchers of between £60 and £150 will be provided depending on the child’s age.

Identifying the particular challenges faced by young care leavers, the Council has pledged £500 direct support payments in both July and December 2025 to all eligible care leavers living in the district. Those identified after July will also receive the same level of support through to March 2026.

Councillor Nicky Hopwood, Executive Member for Cost of Living, at South Hams District Council, said: “If you’ve ever had to buy a child’s school uniform, then you’ll know just how much it can impact a sometimes already stretched budget. That is why we have pledged to provide support for parents and carers on a budget as they approach the new school term.

"With average school uniform being so expensive, it's no wonder this is a significant burden. One which we are delighted to help ease some of the pressure.

“We are also helping our district’s care leavers, many who don’t have a support system around them to cope with financial challenges. That's why we are going over and above to provide the kind of practical support necessary to help them meet challenges head-on.”

The Council will also provide £150 in financial support to:

• Residents with caring responsibilities receiving a Council Tax carers discount. They 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.
• £10,000 to South Dartmoor Community Energy – to continue their vital work addressing energy efficiency, damp and mould, and heating issues.

Cllr Hopwood continues: “We are fortunate in the South Hams to have exceptional groups who are dedicated to supporting our residents. Through financial support for these groups, we enable them to reach more people who need help with practical solutions for real-life issues, offering change that lasts.”

The remaining the Household Support Fund will be released in 3 stages throughout the year. This open application scheme means residents can apply for help when they need it.