Households struggling to get by may be able to access help from the Household Support Fund
Local councils will continue to pay out cost of living cash during April.
Households struggling to get by are being urged to check if they can get help through the Household Support Fund (HSF).
Local authorities have been given cash by the Government to target those most in need of support, to help residents pay for things like energy, food and water.
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Some councils are paying out grants of £200 or more to those who meet the qualifying criteria.
The HSF has been extended beyond winter by the Government to ensure families struggling with the cost of living can continue to access help.
Individuals are unlikely to be able to claim more than one payment over a 12-month period but eligibility may differ across the country.
Full details on what is available and who can apply can be found on your council’s cost of living pages online.
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Successful applicants will have to show they are suffering financial difficulties and struggling pay bills or afford basic essentials.
The Government said of the payments: “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.
“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.”