Households struggling with the cost of living crisis could claim an emergency cash payout worth £900 – here’s how.
Support from the London Council
The London Council of Hammersmith and Fulham has extended its Household Support Fund to provide assistance to residents facing financial difficulties.
Government scheme
Local councils across the UK have been given funding by the government to support struggling residents in their areas. This support can include cash payouts, supermarket vouchers, and help with energy bills.
Cash payouts for eligible residents
Hammersmith and Fulham Council will be making cash payouts this winter to around 2,000 residents who are on Housing Benefit or Council Tax support. However, those already receiving the government cost of living crisis payment will not be eligible for this scheme.
Claim up to £900
Struggling residents can claim up to £900 through three separate payouts until March 2024 when the scheme ends. The amount received will depend on individual circumstances and household size.
Additional support for care leavers
An additional 500 one-off payments will be made to young care leavers in the area. The exact amount of these payments has not been confirmed.
Emergency payouts for families in crisis
The council will also provide emergency payouts under the "Crisis Prevention Payment" to families who cannot afford basic essentials like food, gas, and electricity. These payments are available to those experiencing severe financial hardship or at risk of crisis without support.
Eligibility criteria
To qualify for the crisis payout, applicants must be a resident of Hammersmith and Fulham, be 18 years of age or older (or 16 and responsible for younger children), be responsible for council tax or living independently and paying rent, and have less than £1,000 in savings at the time of application. Applicants do not have to be on government benefits, and individuals with temporary immigration status can also apply for support.
Priority groups
The council has identified priority groups for this scheme, including households with disabled adults or children, disabled and long-term ill residents receiving certain benefits, unpaid carers, care-experienced young people, pensioners, large families with children under 5, single parents, single-person households, and individuals fleeing domestic violence or facing community safety issues.
Application process
To apply for the scheme, applicants will need to provide their address, personal circumstances, income, and health information. Sufficient evidence must also be provided to support the application, and failure to do so within 14 days may result in refusal.
Applying for support
If you believe you may be eligible for the scheme, you can submit your application through the Hammersmith and Fulham Council's website. Once accepted, the funds will be directly transferred to your bank account.
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