Camden Council in London is offering much-needed financial relief to residents struggling with the rising cost of living from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ). Under the Household Support Fund (HSF), households can receive up to £500, along with £30 supermarket shopping vouchers for each eligible child. This scheme is designed to provide essential support for food, energy bills, and other basic needs, ensuring that families in financial distress can access immediate help.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) funds this program, and Camden Council is managing its distribution locally. If you live in the UK and are facing an urgent financial crisis, this is a great opportunity to get help. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to know about the payments, eligibility, and application process.
How Much Support Can You Receive?
Eligible households can get:
- Up to £500 as a one-time payment to cover essentials like food, bills, or housing.
- £30 supermarket vouchers per child for groceries and daily needs.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this program, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be over 18 (or over 16 if living independently).
- Have lived in Camden for at least six weeks.
- Provide proof of urgent financial need with your current bank statements.
- Not have applied for the fund in the past two months.
The local authority stated: “If you cannot afford essentials such as food, energy bills or housing, you may be eligible for a payment from our Cost of Living Crisis Fund. Each Crisis Fund payment is worth up to £500. The amount depends on your circumstances and the size of your household.
How to Apply for the Household Support Fund
Applying for the HSF is straightforward. Camden Council offers multiple ways to submit your application:
- Self-Referral:
- Fill out the application form yourself.
- Reach out to Camden’s Money Advice Service, where an advisor will assist you.
- Help for Private Renters:
- Private renters can email the Camden Federation of Private Tenants (CFPT) at cols@cfpt.org.uk to schedule an appointment.
- The CFPT team will help submit your application on your behalf.
- In-Person Assistance:
- If you have trouble completing the form online, call Camden Council at 020 7974 4444.
- They will arrange a one-on-one appointment to guide you through the process.
Important Points to Remember
- You can apply for this payment twice in a 12-month period, but there must be at least two months between applications.
- Your residency in Camden will be verified using the Council Tax database or other forms of proof.
What Happens After Your Application?
If your application is approved, you will receive either:
- A direct payment into your bank account, or
- Vouchers that can be used for items like energy-saving appliances or groceries.
Why This Matters
With inflation and rising costs, many households are struggling to make ends meet. Camden’s Household Support Fund is a lifeline, ensuring that residents in financial emergencies have access to the help they need.
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