UK households are being offered up to £500 in cost of living payments this January for essentials like food and energy bills, thanks to the extended Household Support Fund set to run until 2025. The scheme involves the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) sending funds to local councils across the UK, who then distribute the money as they see fit.
However, each council has its own eligibility criteria and amount of money to give out. For instance, Solihull Council is offering energy bill vouchers worth £147 or direct debt relief of £500 for those struggling with utility bills.
In contrast, Camden Council in London is providing a Household Support Fund payment of up to £500 per household, along with up to £30 supermarket shopping vouchers for each eligible child. Leeds Council is giving out £40 payments, or £150 to pensioners not eligible for Winter Fuel Payments.
Calderdale is offering £100 payments to households with children or disabled individuals. While some councils specify that the money will go to those on benefits, you don’t necessarily need to be claiming any benefits to qualify for support.
The government’s website states: “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 the Express.
It also assures that “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.”