Struggling households across the UK could receive grants and other forms of support to help with the cost of living in 2025. The winter months often intensify financial strains for households, especially as energy bills are set to increase once again on January 1.
However, Brits could receive additional financial aid to help them through the colder weeks with the Household Support Fund (HSF). This government fund was first introduced in October 2021 and has been extended multiple times since then, with the latest extension making the fund accessible until March 2025. The DWP has injected an extra £421 million into the pot for distribution among local authorities in England.
Additional funds have been allocated to devolved social security administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Local councils can then utilise these funds to support residents in the way they deem most suitable.
Some councils may also be able to assist with the purchase of essential household items like fridges, freezers, and ovens, provide an engineer for heating/lighting repairs, and help with housing costs (excluding mortgages) in emergency situations where existing schemes cannot provide assistance. Others are implementing voucher schemes to aid individuals and families.
For instance, Birmingham has geared up to offer hardship payments of £200, with applications opening in November. Similarly, Coventry City Council announced that energy and water support would be accessible over two months, allowing individuals to apply thrice within the six-month span of the ongoing scheme.
How to apply for the Household Support Fund
The government points out that the Household Support Fund is aimed at “anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council”.
Moreover, even benefit recipients won’t see their regular payments impacted by any extra aid from the HSF. But since the HSF’s funds are managed by individual councils, they hold the reins on deciding who gets help.
Each council sets its own eligibility criteria, so you’ll need to reach out directly to discover if you qualify. To find out about your local council’s HSF, a swift visit to the government’s online directory can lead you to your local council’s website for further details.