2 days ago
Households can apply for supermarket vouchers worth £320 to spend in Waitrose and M&S in just HOURS
HOUSEHOLDS will be able to apply for supermarket vouchers to spend in supermarkets like Waitrose and M&S in a matter of hours.
Families struggling with the cost of living can receive up to £320 to put towards their food shops.
This is part of a wider essential support scheme to take a bit of pressure off of low income families.
Those who are eligible and meet the criteria can apply when applications re-open tomorrow (August 4th).
Each council has its own share of the £742million, which they can dole out to residents in need.
The tokens can then be used in a wide range of shops.
All the shops accepting vouchers
Here is a list of the shops that will accept the tokens:
Aldi
Asda
Farmfoods
Iceland
M&S
Morrisons
Sainsbury's
Tesco
Waitrose
Residents of North Northamptonshire are among those who will be able to apply for the vouchers.
According to the council website, a single person household can be awarded £150, £260 is available for two people, and £320 will be handed out to homes of 3 or more residents.
The site also highlights that the eligibility criteria must be met in order to receive this support.
The council has stated: "Wider essentials and cost of living support is not intended as emergency support and one award will be allocated per eligible household.
You also must provide a national insurance number and proof of income when applying for the vouchers.
This scheme was paused due to the high number of applications but will resume tomorrow.
Five tips to feed your family for less and save on your supermarket shop
The council asks that applicants wait two months for their request to be processed.
If approved, your voucher will be sent to your email address.
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
Visit North Northamptonshire Council for more information and to apply.
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