Hard up households can apply for cost of living support worth £230
Cash-strapped households can get access to money through the Household Support Fund (HSF).
1
The scheme has been extended multiple times with the latest round running between April 2025 and March 2026.
Each council in England has been allocated a share of the £742million fund and can distribute it to residents in need.
Eligibility criteria varies based on where you live but usually help is offered to those on benefits or a low income.
Households in Redcar & Cleveland can now apply for support worth £230.
How much you can get depends on different factors such as whether you have children or not.
For example, if you are household without children receiving Council Tax Support you will receive a payment of £116.
And if you have one or more dependent children in your household and claiming the support you will receive £230.
Those with children who don't receive Council Tax Support but have a low household income and are financially struggling will also receive £230.
The payments will be sent to applicants bank accounts and can be used for daily living essentials and utility costs.
You can find out more about how to apply by visiting, www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/
Household Support Fund
Other councils to have announced details of their schemes include Salford where residents can apply for free food vouchers and fuel top up credits.
North Somerset Council has also announced it will provide food vouchers worth up to £100 to those in need.
And, families living in Worcestershire can apply for cost of living cash worth £500.
Meanwhile, Cheshire West Council's latest allocation of the Household Support Fund is worth £200.
What if I don't live in Redcar & Cleveland
The £742million Household Support Fund has been shared between all councils in England.
So, if you don't live in this area but are struggling financially or are on benefits you will likely be eligible for help.
This is because the fund was originally set up to help those on low incomes or classed as vulnerable.
What type of help you can get will vary but it could range from a free cash payment to supermarket vouchers.
It's worth bearing in mind, because the new round of the HSF has only just opened, you might not be able to apply for help yet.
However, it's worth keeping an eye on your local council's website or social media channels.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you're battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don't delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it's crucial you apply as soon as possible.
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