THOUSANDS of households can get up to £450 in free support – and you don't have to be on Universal Credit or other benefits.
Household Support Fund offers financial assistance to all households
The government's Household Support Fund (HSF) scheme provides financial assistance to households across the country. Residents in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, can receive a one-off payment of £50, and potentially the full £450. The cash is available to families receiving housing benefit, Council Tax reductions, or free school meals. Eligible families have until Thursday, February 29 to apply.
Payments will begin on February 19
Payments from the HSF will start on February 19 and will be staggered throughout the week. Even households that do not receive any additional cost of living support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can still receive up to £450. To apply, residents must provide their last two bank statements for every adult in the household.
Help for struggling households
The HSF is part of a larger effort by councils across the country to support struggling households with rising bills and food costs. The amount of funding each council receives varies depending on the catchment area, population, and need. The vouchers or grants available also vary by location, so it is important to check with your local council to see what support you can receive and how it will be provided.
You don't need to be on benefits to apply
While the HSF is often targeted at those on low incomes and receiving government support, you do not need to be on benefits or Universal Credit to be eligible for the cash. Some areas are offering the assistance to households that do not claim government support. For more information on what support is available and how to apply, residents should contact their local council. The government's council checker tool on gov.uk can help you find your local council.
Other sources of help
In addition to the HSF, there are other sources of help available. Major energy companies like British Gas, Octopus Energy, and EDF offer assistance, but eligibility requirements may vary. It is worth checking if you qualify for benefits, as a significant amount of support goes unclaimed each year. Online calculators like the Turn2us benefits calculator, Policy in Practice better off calculator, and entitledto benefits calculator can help determine your eligibility. Additionally, those who use prepayment meters for energy may be eligible for fuel vouchers through the Fuel Bank Foundation.
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Calderdale Council began contacting eligible families in January, but residents can still apply.
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