Last month, Labour’s Rachel Reeves confirmed that the Tory’s Household Support Fund would be extended until April 2025 with a further 421million of funding added
The Household Support Fund has been renewed for another six months with support worth £421million of cost of living support made available.
Last month, Labour’s Rachel Reeves confirmed that the Tory’s Household Support Fund would be extended until April 2025. The scheme provides local councils with pots of cash which they can then use to provide support to those struggling most with the cost of living.
The amount of money given to each authority depends on the size and population of the area with larger more densely populated areas receiving more cash to spend. You can only receive support from your local council, and each area decides on how they want to spend their funding.
Over the last few years, the help provided by councils has ranged from free cash payments, council tax discounts, and supermarket and energy vouchers. The funding has also been given to food banks, heating hubs, and other local organisations.
Who qualifies for help through the Household Support Fund?
When the scheme began, councils were advised to allocate the money to “vulnerable households in most need of support to help with significantly rising living costs”. In particular, local authorities were told they should prioritise people who:
- Are eligible for but not claiming qualifying benefits
- Became eligible for benefits after the relevant qualifying dates
- Receiving Housing Benefit only
- Are normally eligible for benefits but who had a nil award in the qualifying period due to
But even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, you should still get in touch with your council if you are struggling as many areas have expanded the groups they are offering help for.
How to claim help through the Household Support Fund
How you apply for the Household Support Fund will differ depending on who your local council is. Some local authorities are giving help automatically to certain groups while others you have to apply for the help.
Again, each application process is different however the majority allow you to apply online. To get the help, most councils will ask you to provide proof of why you need it. Some will only offer help to those in “financial distress” however others will offer help to those classed as being on a low income. Proof includes things such as bank statements and bills. Your local council will explain how you can apply on their website.
