The cold weather over the winter months can often increase the financial burden on families. This is even more of an issue as energy bills have surged by 10 per cent amidst plummeting temperatures.
Yet, there’s help for some Brits struggling to keep warm and manage expenses during these colder months with the Household Support Fund (HSF). Initially set up in October 2021, the HSF has seen multiple extensions, the latest of which ensures its availability until March 2025.
An extra £421 million was put into the pot by the DWP which is being shared between local authorities in England. Further cash has been given to the devolved social security administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Local councils use the money to help their residents in the way thought most appropriate. Some local councils even offer additional support, such as essential home appliances or emergency housing cost aid when other schemes fall short.
In Birmingham, for instance, hardship payments of £200 will be made with applications accepted from November. Coventry City Council also pledged energy and water support over two months, allowing individuals to apply three times within the six-month span of the ongoing programme.
How to secure this winter assistance from your local council
The government clarifies that the HSF is open to “anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council”.
Moreover, even if you’re a benefits recipient, your regular payments won’t be impacted by any extra support from the HSF. However, as the fund is managed by individual councils, they have the discretion to decide who qualifies for aid.
Consequently, eligibility criteria will differ across councils and you’ll need to get in touch with them directly to determine if you qualify. A simple way to learn about your local council’s HSF is through the government’s online directory, which directs you to your local council’s website for more information.
