WIREDGOV

Families struggling to pay for things such as food and rent can apply for help from the Welsh Government’s Discretionary Assistance Fund.

The fund has two types of help - Emergency Assistance Payments (EAP) to provide assistance when there is an immediate threat to health and well being, and the Individual Assistance Payments (IAP) to meet an urgent need necessary to support independent living and avoid the need for institutional care.

The latest figures show that in July there were 1,822 EAP payments given compared to 953 in June. IAP payments also increased from 617 in June to 843 in July.

Jeff Cuthbert will visit Northgate Public Services Welsh Business Centre in Wrexham which manages the Welsh Government’s Discretionary Assistance Fund.

He said:

“I am looking forward to meeting those who are doing such important work to support people who are dealing with a crisis in their lives.

“This office has a critical role in supporting the Welsh Government’s approach to poverty by helping the most vulnerable in our society who often have no where else to turn.

“The latest figures show just how many people are turning for emergency financial help. This is often a last resort as they face the triple squeeze of a struggling economy, public spending cuts and a radical shake-up of the welfare system. Despite these tough times we will continue to do all we can to help those most in need.”