Targeted data-driven support puts money back into the pockets of Cotswold residents
An innovative tool designed to identify households in need and put money back in their pocket has already helped thousands of Cotswold residents, new figures have revealed one year on from its launch.
Through its Low Income Family Tracker (LIFT) programme, delivered in partnership with Policy in Practice, Cotswold District Council has helped more than 9,300 residents across the district to access more than £341,000 in financial support since the tool was launched in December 2024.
The system analyses local data to pinpoint residents at risk of financial hardship which allows the council to proactively reach out with tailored advice and support. The impact has been felt straight away, helping more people claim the support they’re entitled to, easing pressure on their household budgets, and lifting families out of financial difficulty.
A standout achievement has been a targeted Pension Credit campaign that enabled 96 pensioners to secure more than £339,000 in additional income. Beyond the immediate financial help, these Pension Credit claims will continue to benefit residents for years to come — adding an estimated £1.9 million to the local economy over their lifetime. They also open the door to other important support, such as Winter Fuel Payments, which help older people stay warm and well during colder months.
The programme has also helped 49 households move out of fuel poverty through helping them access the Warm Homes Discount giving money off their energy bills, and helped 54 households to get their budgets back on track with targeted water-bill support. Direct engagement with Universal Credit recipients led to 181 new Council Tax Reduction claims, ensuring more families receive the assistance available to them. Additional campaigns promoting Attendance Allowance, Healthy Start vouchers and the Severe Disability Premium have provided further targeted help to dozens of vulnerable residents.
In total, 17 focused campaigns have driven meaningful improvements in financial resilience across the district, ensuring residents do not miss out on support that could make a critical difference to their lives.
Jane Portman, chief executive officer at Cotswold District Council, said: “This programme shows the real impact proactive, data-led support can have. By identifying residents who may be struggling before they reach crisis point, we’ve helped thousands of households access financial support quickly and easily. It is about putting money directly into people’s pockets and strengthening the wellbeing of our communities.”
The LIFT programme was introduced at Cotswold District Council in December 2024 and demonstrate the immediate impact of taking a proactive, insight-led approach to tackling financial hardship.
The council will continue working with Policy in Practice to expand the initiative over the coming year, with further campaigns planned around Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and Healthy Start.