Struggling households can receive a free payment of up to £300 to help with energy bills this winter, thanks to the government-funded Household Support Fund scheme. The scheme was first introduced by the former Tory government in 2021 and provides local councils with funds to offer cost of living support to struggling households.
Each council offers its own support, which can only be claimed by residents of that area. Blackpool Council, for example, is offering payments of £200 and £300 to households struggling to cover energy costs.
Households with one or two occupants can receive a payment of £200, while those with three or more can receive £300. If eligible, the money will be paid directly to your energy provider and will appear as credit on your bill.
According to the council’s website, you can apply for the support if you are: You do not need to be claiming Universal Credit or any other Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits to get this help. However, you do need to provide proof that you are in financial hardship.
Blackpool Council states that with your application, you will need to provide your most recent full month bank/building society/savings account statements for all accounts for the applicant and all other adults in your household. These statements need to show all of your transactions and not just the balances, reports the Mirror.
You’ll need to provide a copy of your electricity or gas bill showing your name and address, supplier’s name, and account number. For those on prepayment meters, an online account with your supplier is required, along with a screenshot or photo displaying your name, address, supplier’s name, and pre-pay account number.
Blackpool Council has warned that any applications lacking proof will be outright rejected. Applications for support can be made online via Blackpool Council’s website, where you’ll receive a reference number.
The council has advised that processing may take “several weeks” due to the anticipated volume of applications. You’ll be informed about the next steps once your application is assessed.
This scheme is exclusive to Blackpool residents; however, other local councils have their own Household Support Schemes. Keep an eye on your local authority’s website for updates on available schemes.