The Power of Partnerships:  Working with Third Party Organisations to Promote the Household Support Fund

Working with Third Party Organisations (TPOs) can be key in successfully reaching those who need to access the Household Support Fund (HSF). Working collaboratively has proven to be vital for some local authorities, who have found it can really help with the distribution of funds.

Organisations such as local charities and Citizens Advice services can have a big impact on the success of applications for HSF. They are often closest to the communities they work in and know how best to assess and find people suitable for HSF payments. These partnerships help local authorities to ensure the application process, eligibility check and payment can be undertaken by organisations who are within the communities they serve.

TPO Benefits

Allowing for some variety across policy and geographical areas, here are some of the common advantages of working with TPOs:

• Understanding of the needs of service users and communities in their wards and those hard to reach
• Closeness to the communities, they work daily with the people who most need help
• Making the application process accessible from local, in-person assistance to vulnerable households or help with processing of applications

Efficiency and Security

It’s vitally important to make sure the HSF funds are being allocated compliantly, adhering to GDPR and DWP reporting guidelines. With Huggg, this can be achieved by using the data reports and using it in MI returns to the DWP, with full transparency of how the TPO are using the funds. Plus the platform is secure with Cyber Essentials Plus and ISO 27001 accreditation.
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Many authorities we’ve worked with agree that the relationships they have with TPOs helped them to resource and deliver the HSF more effectively. Choosing a TPO wisely can ensure that your authority is able to reach out and benefit people in local communities that proactive targeting could miss.  

Up next: Maximising the impact of your HSF campaign with effective marketing

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