A package of cost-of-living support measures is set to be agreed upon by Oxfordshire County Council's cabinet next week.

The measures, proposed for agreement on Tuesday, November 19, include funding for low-income pensioners who have lost their winter fuel allowance, and the continued provision of free school meals during holidays to children and young people already receiving them.

It comes after the government announced the extension of the Household Support Fund from October 1 this year to March 31, 2025.

Councillor Nathan Ley, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for public health, inequalities, and community safety, said: "Inflation has fallen significantly since its high of over 11 per cent in 2022.

"However, this does not reflect the real situation people face every day, particularly those on lower incomes.

"Many people are still struggling with everyday costs and are having to cut back on basics such as food and heating, and sadly this has a very real impact on people’s physical and mental health.

"This is why it’s so important that we can continue to provide vital support to households that need it the most."

The programme will also see city and district councils receive additional funding for locally targeted support, while the Residents Support Scheme will continue to assist those experiencing financial crises with basic household costs.

Residents can find more about the support available by visiting Oxfordshire County Council’s dedicated webpage.