UK residents facing financial hardship will receive up to £110 this February through the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF). This initiative aims to assist low-income families with essential costs like food and energy during the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has allocated £421 million to local councils, which will manage distribution based on their own criteria. Payment amounts will vary depending on location and individual circumstances, with some residents already receiving support and others expected to receive it throughout February. Applications remain open in some areas.
Eligibility for the HSF is determined by local councils, targeting low-income individuals struggling to afford necessities. This means the available funds and application requirements differ across the UK. For example, Wolverhampton Council is providing separate payments for food and energy, with single-person households eligible for £25 and £40 respectively, couples receiving £50 and £60, and families with children receiving an additional £15 per child. This targeted approach aims to provide direct support to those most in need.
To apply, eligible residents should contact their local council or housing provider. In some cases, residents of specific housing organizations must apply through their landlord first. For instance, in Wolverhampton, residents of certain housing associations should contact their housing provider before applying through the council’s website. Applicants will typically need to provide a Council Tax reference number and recent bank statements. Councils aim to process applications within seven to ten working days, with a further seven to ten working days for approved funds to arrive. Applicants may need to respond to requests for additional information within five days to avoid application closure.
The HSF is a temporary government measure designed to provide targeted relief to those struggling with rising living costs. While the fund has aided millions over the past two years, particularly during high-energy-use winter months, some argue that these one-off payments are insufficient to address long-term financial hardship. Despite government claims of the HSF’s positive impact, calls for extended and expanded financial assistance continue as the cost of living crisis persists. Eligible households are encouraged to apply promptly due to limited funding, and those unsure of their eligibility should contact their local council for specific rules and deadlines.