Support will be available for struggling households beyond winter
Special cost of living payments will be available for millions of households this spring, it has been confirmed.
Money will continue to be available from local councils through the Household Support Fund (HSF), and low-income households could claim hundreds of pounds in support.
Grants have been available for some of the worst-off Brits throughout winter.
READ MORE: Pensioners who lost Winter Fuel Payment to get new £300 payments
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It has been confirmed the HSF will be extended to continue beyond winter throughout 2025, so struggling families will still be able to come forward any apply for help.
The result will be hundreds of pounds dropping into millions of bank accounts across the country.
People can apply for cost of living support payments, worth around £200 or more in some areas, through their local councils. Applicants usually need to show they are struggling to afford basic essentials like food and water.
But anyone can apply and they do not need to be claiming benefits if they can show they are finding life tough.
Residents should visit their local council’s Household Support Fund pages online for more information on help available and how to apply.
The Government explained: “You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council.
“This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’. This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills; food; essential items
“Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays.
“Funding 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.
“If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme.
“Councils decide how to run their schemes. There may be differences in: eligibility criteria; if or how you need to apply; who money is given to.
“For example, some councils share out money through local charities and community groups and some limit household applications to one per year.”