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<p>Local welfare assistance is an umbrella term used to describe local authority provision
for people who are in need of urgent help. The ability of local authorities to act
in this area are provided under various powers, for example, section 2 of the Local
Government Act 2000 enables local authorities to provide financial assistance to any
individual.</p><p> </p><p>Provision of local welfare assistance is entirely the responsibility
of local authorities. Councils have flexibility to use the funding they receive from
the annual Local Government Finance Settlement for local welfare assistance. Next
year, depending on local decisions, Core Spending Power in England may rise from £49
billion in 2020-21 to up to £51.3 billion in 2021-22, a 4.6% increase in cash terms.
If councils do decide to take up the entirety of the increase on offer, they will
see an increase in line with last years. This recognises the resources councils need
to meet their pressures and maintain current service levels.</p><p> </p><p>Going forward,
we will continue working with individual local authorities to support the most vulnerable
people affected during the pandemic.</p>
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