Struggling families and individuals in the UK can now apply for cost of living payments worth £100 through the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF). This initiative is designed to help low-income households manage essential expenses such as food and energy reported by The Sun.
Overview of the Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund, established in 2021, has been extended multiple times by the UK government to provide financial relief to those in need. The support includes free cash and vouchers, distributed by local councils, to help cover the cost of essentials. Eligibility and the amount received depend on the benefits you already receive and your financial circumstances.
Eligibility and Application in Kent
In Kent, eligible households can apply for £100 vouchers that can be used for food, energy, or both. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be aged over 16
- Reside in Kent
- Receive means-tested benefits or have a household income below £40,000 per annum before tax
- Not receive free school meals voucher support from their child’s school during holidays
Eligible households will receive a £100 e-voucher via email, which can be redeemed at supermarkets or with energy providers.
To apply, visit www.kent.gov.uk. If you are unsure about your eligibility, contact your local council to explore potential support options.
Support in Other Areas
Support through the HSF varies by location. Each local council receives a share of the £421 million fund and distributes it based on local needs. Some councils may offer direct cash payments, while others provide vouchers for essentials like food and energy. It is important to check with your local council for specific details and application procedures.
Determining Eligibility
Eligibility for HSF support depends on local council criteria. It is advisable to check with your council to understand the available schemes and ensure you receive the support you need. Applying for HSF will not affect your existing benefits, and you do not necessarily need to be receiving benefits to qualify for support.
Benefits Check
To ensure you are not missing out on any entitled benefits, use a benefits calculator. Tools such as the Turn2Us benefits calculator, Entitledto’s free calculator, and MoneySavingExpert.com’s benefits tool can help determine your eligibility for various benefits, including tax credits and Universal Credit. These calculators provide an estimate, but your exact entitlement will be confirmed upon making a claim.
For more information, visit your local council’s website or contact them directly to explore available support options through the Household Support Fund.
Manish Kumar is a seasoned journalist and the Senior Editor at NewIndiaNetwork.com, with over a decade of experience in uncovering stories that matter. A leader both in the newsroom and beyond, he thrives on guiding his team to deliver impactful, thought-provoking content. When he’s not shaping headlines, you can find him sharing his insights on Twitter @humanish95 or connecting via email at manishdhanda60@gmail.com.
