Welfare Support from Torbay Council offers practical help to residents of Torbay who are experiencing financial hardship. The scheme is designed to help people meet essential needs and support those who need assistance to establish or maintain their independence in the community.
Who can apply?
- You must be over 15 years of age
- You must live in Torbay
- You must be on a welfare benefit or have very low disposable income
You may be asked to provide proof of income, bank details, and other evidence depending on the support you apply for. If you are not in receipt of a welfare benefit, you should list your income and expenditure fully on the application form.
What can the Welfare Support Scheme help with?
- Essential monthly expenditure that cannot be deferred
- Essential furniture and white goods (if setting up home for the first time)
- Boiler repair
- Rent in advance and deposit
- Essential prescriptions (if you are not exempt)
- Other immediate support necessary for the wellbeing of you and your family
- Signposting to essential advice and support services
How to provide supporting evidence:
- Upload documents using the online link (when available)
- Email: Welfaresupport@torbay.gov.uk
- Post: Welfare Support, Torbay Council, Torquay Town Hall, Castle Circus, TQ1 3DR
- Use the Welfare Support postbox on the corner of the Town Hall
Please include your name and address when supplying evidence. The Welfare Support team may contact you by phone or email to discuss your application and any supporting evidence required. Some details may be checked with the Department of Work and Pensions and other council departments.
Important: Wherever possible, goods and services will be provided directly. Any help given from the Welfare Support Scheme does not have to be repaid.
If you are unhappy with a decision, you can request a review. Additional help is available for Council Tax and Discretionary Housing Payments.
Contact us for more information or to discuss your needs.