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:
Crisis support:
- 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.
- A £1 million Crisis Payment scheme for residents facing sudden financial hardship, covering essentials such as food, energy and household items.
- 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.
- Help with rent deposits and tenancy bonds for households at risk of entering temporary accommodation.
- Community-based crisis support, including food, clothing and essentials, delivered through faith and voluntary organisations and coordinated by Action Together.
- Funding for Oldham Foodbank to maintain supplies throughout the year.
Resilience support (from summer 2026):
- A new one-stop financial advice service offering support with money, debt and benefits, available face-to-face in every district, by phone (including evenings until 9pm) and online.
- A dedicated Income Maximisation Team to help residents access benefits they are entitled to but may not be claiming.
- Energy efficiency advice and access to small measures through National Energy Action at the Millennium Centre.
- An expanded Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme for children from low-income families, including those in temporary accommodation.
- Affordable loan options through Oldham Credit Union.
- A Digital Inclusion Hub from Inclusive Bytes, providing devices, data and support for those who need it.
A further £200,000 will support improved community coordination, making it easier for residents to access the right help, wherever they first reach out.
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 or get in touch directly:
- Call the Oldham Helpline: 0161 770 7007 (9am–5pm, weekdays)
- Visit the Customer Service Centre, Spindles Shopping Centre, West Street, Oldham (9am–5pm, weekdays)
If you are able to support others, please consider donating to Oldham Foodbank.
