Dorset will be awarded more than £4.5million to extend the Household Support Scheme, which assists those most in need amid the cost of living crisis.

The government has announced that £842million of additional funding will be allocated from April to help the most vulnerable households across England.

The funding has been allocated by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and will be given out through local councils, including Dorset Council. 

West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed news that Dorset has been awarded a further £4.5million and commented: "I am pleased to see the government fully investing in the wellbeing of rural communities who remain in need of assistance in difficult economic circumstances.

"This will provide much needed security for the Council and all those who depend on this support."

The Household Support Fund provides councils with some flexibility on how that funding is spent, such as by supporting people's energy bills or helping to pay for groceries. 

Dorset Council has also used this to fund school meal vouchers for eligible families during the February half term and Easter Holidays. 

For details on the allocation of the Household Support Fund in Dorset and who is eligible, visit https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/household-support-fund