VICTIMS of the recent floods in Cumbria could be in line for thousands of pounds to help them get back on their feet.

Yesterday, Tuesday February 18, the Government announced thousands of pounds of support for people affected by flooding following Storms Dennis and Ciara.

Flooding has hit a number of town in the area including places like Appleby.

Under the Flood Recovery Framework families and local businesses could receive funding from their local councils after a set of support packages were announced.

Flood-hit households being able to apply for up to £500 in financial hardship payments . So those in short-term need can get cash quickly.

Households and businesses significantly affected could be 100% council tax and business rates relief for at least three months.

Small-to-medium sized businesses in affected areas which have suffered severe, uninsurable losses will be eligible for up to £2,500 from the Business Recovery Grant.

Flood-hit homes and businesses can apply for up to £5,000 to help make them more resilient to future flooding.

The Local Government Secretary also announced the government would convene the cross-Whitehall Flood Recovery Taskforce, including environment, businesses and transport ministers, to provide individual areas with bespoke support and guidance. The first meeting will take place this week.

Local government secretary Robert Jenrick MP said: "Storms Dennis and Ciara have severely impacted a large number of households and businesses, I recognise how destabilising this can be.

This extra support, including new funding, will help people in the worst-hit areas to recover and get back on their feet as soon as possible."

This comes after the government activated the emergency Bellwin scheme after Storm Ciara on 10 February 10 and Storm Dennis on February 17.

Under the scheme, local authorities can apply to have 100% of their costs, above a threshold, reimbursed by the government. This could be for items including rest centres, temporary accommodation and staff overtime.

The scheme was activated for areas like Cumbria which have seen significant impacts. For further information contact your local authority.