More than 10,000 households in Mendip are set to receive the first installment of the government's cost-of-living payment, according to new data.

However, the Resolution Foundation has cautioned that the government's support does not sufficiently cover those with low incomes who are not receiving benefits, as the general public grapples with escalating energy costs and surging inflation.

Department for Work and Pensions statistics reveal that approximately 11,500 households in Mendip are eligible to obtain up to £900 in cost-of-living payments, making up a portion of the over 8 million UK households receiving this assistance.

Eligible households will receive the first of three installments, totaling £301, between April 25 and May 17.

The payment should appear directly in recipients' bank accounts. Those who qualify for the payment include individuals who received any of the following benefits between January 26 and February 25 this year: Universal Credit, income-based jobseekers allowance, income-related employment and support allowance, income support, working tax credit, child tax credit, and pension credit.

However, with the consumer price index inflation currently at 10.1%, charities warn that some people will fall through the cracks as they struggle with rising costs. Lalitha Try, an economist at the Resolution Foundation, said that many families in urgent need of help will be left behind, such as those with low incomes but not receiving benefits.

In addition to the cost-of-living payments, a £150 disability payment will be distributed to 6.7 million individuals across the UK this summer, with around 9,600 of these recipients residing in Mendip. Pensioners who receive winter fuel payments will also receive an additional £300 later this year.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride emphasised that the government is committed to supporting the most vulnerable and highlighted the work coach support scheme as a means to help people improve their skills and advance in their careers. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt acknowledged the challenging times and stated that the Spring Budget focused on assisting people with the cost of living and helping them secure well-paid employment.