A NATIONAL charity has criticised Dorset Council’s awarding of national government funding as being ‘unacceptable’ amid fears some vulnerable families could miss out on support.

Following a report that one Dorset resident feels ‘discriminated’ against regarding how a centrally funded government support scheme is handed out in the county, via energy vouchers, disability equality charity Scope has also criticised the allocation of the Household Support Fund.

Currently in the county to receive energy vouchers, financed by the fund, people must be in receipt of Universal Credit, with those on other benefits not eligible.

Dorset Echo: Dorset County Hall. Inset: Councillor Mike Barron. Picture: Dorset Council

However, in other areas of the country, those on disability allowance may be able to receive energy vouchers because there are variations in how the funding is allocated between local authorities - despite the money coming from the same national scheme.

Tom Marsland, policy manager at disability equality charity Scope, said: “It’s unacceptable that some disabled families could be missing out on vital support this winter because of inconsistencies like this.

“Many disabled people are facing the full force of price rises, supplier collapse, and an energy market in turmoil.

“As energy bills rise, it’s those who struggle to afford energy in the first place who are hit hardest. Disabled people already face hundreds of pounds in extra costs every month.

“As VAT receipts increase as bills go up, this money could be used to provide assistance to disabled households who are making difficult financial choices this winter.”

While those on disability benefits and pension credit can not receive the energy vouchers from Dorset Council the authority insists other support may be available.

Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder Customer & Community Services said: “The council has put in place a wide-ranging programme to allocate money from the Government’s Household Support Fund, and the Winter Energy Voucher scheme was one part of this programme.

“The vouchers have now been allocated and we are continuing to provide financial assistance to support vulnerable households in Dorset.

Dorset Echo: Cllr laura Miller, picture: Dorset Council

“If you have children in your household and are struggling financially you may be able to get additional help from our local family support teams.

“We have also allocated additional funding to our partners at Citizens Advice Dorset and would strongly urge people to contact their Adviceline on Freephone 0800 144 8848 for specialist help, support and guidance.”