Havering Council has provided additional support to hundreds of vulnerable families over November and December through a targeted one-off Christmas payment.
This was delivered as part of the Council’s wider Emergency Assistance Scheme (EAS), funded by the UK Government’s Household Support Fund.
The payment focused on families with children who had made previous applications for the scheme within 12 months, ensuring that help reached households under ongoing financial pressure.
In total, 855 families received an additional £125 Christmas payment, on top of their usual EAS payment.
Some households included five or more children, highlighting the difference this support made for larger families.
The payment helped families manage essential winter costs such as energy bills, food and household expenses, while supporting children’s wellbeing during one of the most challenging times of the year.
The Christmas payment is part of Havering Helps, the Council’s broader cost of living programme, which continues to provide essentials such as food, heating, and household appliances to those most in need.
Since its launch, the Emergency Assistance Scheme has received more than 22,000 applications, including 6,576 households applying directly, supporting over 20,000 children during school holidays with food and other essentials.
The scheme has also played a major role in reopening community hubs at Rainham Library and Harold Hill Library, which host weekly drop-in sessions offering advice and support.
Both hubs run Community Food Pantries, offering over £20 worth of food for just £6, serve fresh meals, and provide guidance on healthy eating to help residents stay active and connected.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“Christmas can be a very challenging time for families who are already under pressure.
"This payment was a simple but important way to provide extra help when household costs are at their highest.
“It reflects our wider approach to cost of living support in Havering - making sure help is targeted, timely and reaches families who need it most.”
Residents who are facing urgent financial difficulties can apply for support through the Emergency Assistance Scheme.
For further support with the cost of living, residents can also contact the Council directly via email at costoflivingresponse@havering.gov.uk or call the Cost of Living helpline on 01708 432280.