Vicky Parry
24th Sep 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Thousands of households can apply for free cash directly into their bank accounts this month, as part of the latest round of the Household Support Fund, worth £842million.
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a key resource for those struggling to afford essential living costs. This £421 million fund, provided by the central government, is accessible through local councils for individuals in need. The funding has now been extended until April 2025.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated: “Extending the Household Support Fund is the right thing to do, providing targeted support for those who need it most as we head into the winter months.”
Grants available do vary by location, so check to see what you can get and how your council will pay you.
You’ll usually need to be on a low income to receive the help: for example, thousands of people living in Cornwall can get £160 in support. Those who apply will get two payments of £80 directly into their bank accounts, with the payment between October and November.
Those who qualify include:
- Pensions receiving pension credit and other vulnerable adults
- Families with children between reception and Year 11 ages on low income and receiving benefits, or free school meals.
Households do not need to apply – the money will be sent to you automatically. If you think you qualify but don’t receive the cash, it’s worth chasing Cornwall Council to see if you’re able to get it.
Many other councils across the UK, not just Cornwall, are offering financial support via the HSF. Some are handing out vouchers, while others are making bank transfers to eligible residents. The amount you are entitled to will vary depending on the area you live in: e.g. residents living in Brent could get up to £1,000 in support towards food and council tax bills.
You can find out what council area you fall under by using the GOV.UK checker. Do bear in mind that lots of councils haven’t opened the application process yet for the next round of funding.
Other Help
If you live in Cornwall and don’t meet the criteria for the Household Support Fund, there is other help on offer.
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance for adults
- Disability Living Allowance for children
- Personal Independence Payment
- Adult Disability Payment (in Scotland)
- Child Disability Payment (in Scotland)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- War Pension Mobility Supplement
You should check if you are entitled to any benefits that qualify you for the cost of living payments.
Some charities have benefits calculators that will give you a rough estimate of what you could claim:
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