A new fund has been launched in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, to help families struggling with the rising cost of living for their children. Central Surrey Voluntary Action (CSVA) and Walton Charity have teamed up to provide money for essentials like school uniforms, food and enrichment activities. The support was launched in early January 2026 to help local households manage high winter bills before the abolition of the two‑child benefit limit in April 2026.
The grant programme is designed to bridge the gap for local people who do not yet qualify for extra government support. It covers basic needs as well as enrichment activities, which are often the first things parents cut when money is tight. Organisers say the goal is to make sure children do not miss out on normal childhood experiences because of financial pressure at home.
Families can access the money in a few different ways, including through local schools, which act as gatekeepers for the Opportunities Fund portion of the funding. People can also apply through community groups such as Home-Start, via delegated local partners, or by using CSVA’s funding portal. Some application deadlines for community project sub‑grants were set for mid‑January 2026 (for example, January 14, 2026), but the fund continues to target those in immediate need.
This initiative follows a history of local support in the area, including the “More than a Meal” winter appeal in late 2025 that helped raise funds for residents. According to Walton Charity’s 2023–24 impact report, these types of funds are vital because high living costs in the borough can hide the fact that many working families are still struggling to make ends meet. The charities say this direct financial relief should build stronger connections and help the community stay resilient.
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