Almost £3.5 million will be spent helping Warwickshire residents struggling this winter with food, energy and water bills.

Families with children eligible for benefits related free school meals will be prioritised.

Warwickshire County Council will distribute the £3.47 million from 6 October 2021 to 31 March 2022 through the local welfare scheme.

The money comes from a £500 million investment from the government's household support fund.

At least half the total funding is ring fenced to support families with children, with the remainder being made available to other households genuinely in need of support this winter.

WCC portfolio holder for environment, heritage and culture Cllr Heath Timms said the grant was "welcome news" for families in need this winter.

"Last winter, we allocated £1.8m of government funding to make 51,000 awards to families and individuals in need so they were better able to meet food and fuel costs - this funding means we can do even more.

"The grant will bolster the work of our well-established Local Welfare Scheme. If you or someone you know is facing hardship right now, I encourageyoutolook online and get in touchwith us,to find outwhathelpthere is."

For information about wider supportfrom the council and other services follow this link.

More Kenilworth news stories:

- Gang Show's community appeal as props and costume store set to be demolished

- Ten-man Kenilworth Wardens come from behind at Wellesbourne