Parish Council
The Hardship Fund was established partly as a response to the anticipated needs that might occur during the Covid pandemic. Initial funding was provided by the DNPA in 2020, but it has been augmented from various sources. The Fund has been administered by a sub-group of the Parish Council within terms of reference.
Initially, the fund provided some assistance through tokens that could be cashed in the local shop. This was seen to promote the local business but also to recognise that residents in need might not be able to access shops or other supports in Okehampton. Laterally, the Fund was advertised to be able to give direct financial support to cover food costs, or for fuel/electricity.
Applications were sought by phone contact with a nominated Councillor, and also through a dedicated email address.
There have only been a couple of applications made to the Fund but there was an agreement to republicise its availability before Christmas, in anticipation of a rise in need during the well publicised cost of living crisis.
Alongside this process, there has been the development of a Community Pantry within St Mary’s church wherein donations of food and essential materials are left, and from whence residents in need can take items with confidentiality within daylight hours. This has proven to be more effective, both in donations and in turnover of items.
The Parish Council has had responsibilities delegated initially to use Covid funding to meet hardship. However, we recognise that it is difficult for residents in need to admit difficulties to local Councillors and to seek financial assistance.
We have considered the Council supporting the Community Pantry directly, by purchasing specific items to add to the store. As a Council we cannot grant funding to the church, and there could be auditing issues if we funded a non-constituted voluntary group to purchase and supply items. It is important that we do not undermine the generosity already being shown by those who donate to the pantry, but we can target the essentials that maybe doners won’t have recognised as being the most useful.
It is therefore proposed to delegate a Councillor to pay items each month to a maximum of £25 to be added to the pantry. This programme should reviewed every 4 months, and should continue until the Fund has reduced to £100 which should provide some fall-back, should their be applications as per the original intention of the fund.
To accept the proposals above
To delegate Cllr. Wooldridge to purchase and provide items for the Pantry
To consider a report at the June Parish Council meeting.
Cllr D Moore