The household support fund is a government programme that provides targeted financial support for vulnerable people or those who cannot afford essentials such as food, energy bills and water. Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall announced last week that it will be extended until April 2025, stating "We are extending the Household Support Fund for the next six months because it is a lifeline for people who are struggling with the cost of living".
The household support fund was due to end on 30th September 2024, however, the latest extension will provide an additional £421 million in support for those who who meet the eligibility criteria this winter.
What is the household support fund
The household support fund is a government programme that distributes funds to councils across England to help those who are in most need of financial support. The fund allows councils to make payments to vulnerable households in order to meet daily needs including food, clothing and utilities. It is up to the local authorities and councils as to how the money is distributed, so you'll need to check with your local authority to see what help may be available.
Household support fund - Eligibility criteria
The household support fund is administered by local authorities and councils, so the eligibility criteria and application process is likely to differ depending on your financial situation and where you live. Those likely to struggle to heat their homes or afford essential items over the winter months should contact their local council to see what support may be available to them.
Household support fund eligibility example
Those who may qualify for financial support via the household support fund include:
- Pensioners
- Those already in receipt of universal credit, working tax credits or council tax support
- Disabled people, including children
- People with health conditions that are impacted by the cold (including severe asthma, sickle cell anaemia, COPD and cardiovascular disease)
- Carers
- Single adult households (those with high energy, rent or mortgage costs)
Eligibility criteria are set by your local authority/council. Make sure that you check to see if you qualify for financial support.
Household support fund - Application process
The household support fund application process differs depending on your eligibility and geographical location. There may be different ways to access the support depending on your local council. Some areas of financial support are means-tested and eligible people may automatically qualify for help, but there may be other types of 'discretionary' support where you'll need to check your eligibility and make an application online.
To check what support is available and whether you qualify, you'll need to know who your local council is. You check your local council here. Every council website is slightly different so you may not be directed to the relevant page. Try using the search bar, usually found at the top of the website and search for the 'household support fund'. Alternatively, most council websites provide a link on the homepage to the support that is available, often listed under the title 'Cost of living support'.
What other help is available?
If you are struggling to make ends meet, we share some of our favourite money-saving tips in our article 'How to save money on your household bills'. Additionally, you can check whether you are eligible to receive benefits using online calculators such as entitledto or the Turn2us benefits calculator. Finally, check out our detailed cost-of-living guide where we list all of the help that is available to those struggling with their finances.
