Decision details

In February 2025, the Policy and Resources Committee agreed to the use of earmarked reserves to support the Flexible Food and Fuel Fund (FFFF), delivered under contract by third sector partners Bute Advice Centre and ALIenergy during 2025/26.  The current contract is due to end on 31 March 2026.

The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an updated position on the FFFF and the proposed Connected for Good redesign and presented options for the Committee to consider in light of significant changes to the external funding landscape.

Decision

The Policy and Resources Committee –

1.    noted the updated funding position for the Flexible Food and Fuel Fund and Connected for Good, including the loss of UKSPF funding from 2026/27;

2.    recommended to Council that they approve Option 2 and provision is made for the annual cost of £104,000 at the budget meeting on 25 February 2026; and

3.    agreed the time-limited use of existing Scottish Welfare Fund earmarked reserves to support the preventative elements of the Flexible Food and Fuel Fund and Connected for Good, recognising the complementary role these services play in protecting statutory crisis provision.

(Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Finance dated 19 February 2026, submitted)