The money is being issued through the Household Support Fund with a deadline of March 31, 2026 – so families who are struggling following Christmas still have time to apply
Households that are struggling financially are being urged to check if they are eligible for £500 free cash help.
The money is being issued through the Household Support Fund with a deadline of March 31, 2026. It means families who are struggling following Christmas still have time to apply.
The Household Support Fund is a pot of cash which has been made available to local councils. Each local authority has been given the power to decide what sort of help to offer, and who should be eligible.
This means the support does vary across the country. Some councils decide to hand out cash payments, while others may provide vouchers.
Camden Council is issuing payments worth £500 to people who are in an emergency financial situation and don’t have the money to pay for essentials.
You can apply online on the Camden Council website through its Money Advice Service team. You may be eligible for support if you are struggling financially and you have lived in Camden for at least six weeks.
You must be at least 18 years old, or 16 years old and living independently, and be the main tenant or council tax payer. All applicants will have to share their most recent bank statements, as well as details of your income, savings and any benefits you receive.
If you don’t live in Camden, it is worth checking what support your local council can offer you through the Household Support Fund.
For example, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council will be distributing two £60 vouchers to around 6,000 households with pensioners who receive Council Tax Reduction in the first two weeks of January.
One-off payments of £120 are also available for residents who are on a low income, pay energy bills and do not receive Council Tax Reduction.
City of York Council is handing out one-off £100 payments this winter. You will be eligible for the cash if you are receiving help with your council tax bill.
Almost 5,000 York residents are eligible for the payment, with letters having already been sent by the council to households. The letter includes a web address link and a unique reference number for people to apply online.
Portsmouth City Council is awarding £150 to single person households, and £200 for couples or families.
You may be eligible if you are receiving certain benefits, and your household income is below £935 for a single adult household or £1,350 for a couple or family, including single parent families.
Your household income must also be below £935 for a single adult household or £1,350 for a couple or family, including single parent families.
