UK households struggling with the cost of living can anticipate receiving up to £500 in January to help cover essential expenses like food and energy bills. The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the Household Support Fund will be extended until 2025, providing financial aid to local councils across the UK, which are then responsible for distributing the funds at their discretion.
Due to the scheme’s decentralised approach, each council has set its own criteria for eligibility and amounts for payouts. For example, Solihull Council in the Midlands is offering energy bill vouchers worth £147 and direct debt relief of up to £500 for those facing difficulties with utility bills.
Camden Council in London is making available Household Support Fund payments of up to £500 per household, along with supermarket shopping vouchers of up to £30 for each eligible child, as reported by the Express. Leeds Council is handing out £40 payments, increasing to £150 for pensioners who do not qualify for Winter Fuel Payments. In Calderdale, households with children or disabled members are eligible for £100 payments.
While some councils have indicated that recipients must be on benefits to receive funding, the government’s website clarifies that “Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council.”, reports Cornwall Live.
“If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme. Councils decide how to run their schemes. There may be differences in eligibility criteria, if or how you need to apply, who money is given to. For example, some councils share out money through local charities and community groups and some limit household applications to one per year.”
Check here to see if you can apply before the March 31 deadline.
The North Wales Live Whatsapp community for top stories and breaking news is live now – here’s how to sign up
Find out what’s happening near you