Household support fund
Energy and food cost support
Pensioner households not entitled to Winter Fuel payments this year, but known to be on low incomes and in receipt of Council Tax Support and/or Housing Benefit, will receive £200 from the Council through the Government’s Household Support Fund.
These households have already been identified and contacted and payments are in the process of being issued to those that have responded.
If you need additional financial help due to exceptional hardship, you may be eligible for help with food, energy or other essentials.
Applications for the household support fund will be made online, but please be aware that:
- you can only make one application in any six month period
- if you live with a spouse or partner, you must make a joint application for your household even if your spouse/partner does not apply. Your eligibility will depend on your joint income and savings
- all applications relating to exceptional support are required to provide proof of household income. We may also request further information relating to your income and expenditure during the assessment of your application
- applications without the necessary supporting evidence may be rejected
The application process for these payments is currently being finalised and it is expected that the application form will be made live by 13 January 2025. This application will be open to households who receive either Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction.
If you are currently struggling and require support before the application opens, we have lots of information available regarding Cost of living, other benefits and grants available, and our HELP scheme which provides support in an emergency or crisis situation for food, furniture and white goods. You can contact the HELP scheme on 0808 175 3599 Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm.
