An extension has been announced for a scheme that helps people struggling with the cost of living in Worcestershire.

The Household Support Fund, which helps those in need with things such as energy costs, food vouchers and school meals, has been extended until the end of March.

The funding will be used by Act on Energy to help people with the cost of household energy, energy bill debt, and new heating systems.

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Food vouchers for those on free school meals will continue during the holidays.

Cash vouchers will also be available for people who newly receive pension credit.

The Worcestershire Advice Network will also help pensioners, carers and people with disabilities on low incomes.

The network is led by Age UK Wyvern, formerly Age UK Worcester, Malvern Hills and Hereford Localities.

District councils will also be using some of the funding to support other community measures.

Councillor Karen May, cabinet member for communities for Worcestershire County Council, said: "We welcome the government announcement of the extension of the Household Support Fund, this is a lifeline to many households across the county and I urge people to take up the support on offer.

"We will continue to work with our district councils and voluntary sector partners to provide support to those most in need."

For more information about the support available across the county and how to apply, visit the Household Support Fund page on the council website.

Wider cost of living information is also available on the county council website (https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cost-living-support).