New funding of £421 million means that households in hardship can get up to £500 of much-needed support for energy, food, and necessities.
Struggling Families Could Get £500 Cost-of-Living Support – Here’s How to Claim
By Arezki AMIRI
Published on 31 October 2024 17:44
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that they have added another £421 million to the already existing Household Support Fund, which offers assistance to families struggling with living expenses up until March 2024.
The objective of this important funding initiative is to enable thousands of households to cope with rising living costs across England while separate arrangements are made for Wales Scotland and Northern Ireland.
In the West Midlands, councils have been allocated more than £49 million to help residents there and Birmingham City Council is set to issue £200 hardship payments to residents starting in November.
New Support Package Worth Up to £500 Available
Coventry residents can access multiple forms of support through their local council, with potential combined assistance worth up to £500 for eligible families. The comprehensive support package includes:
- Energy and water assistance: £120 for singles/couples, £160 for families (renewable every two months)
- Emergency food parcels: Three per household, with additional support for accessing community supermarkets
- Toiletries vouchers: £20 for singles/couples, £30 for families (covering two-month periods)
- Clothing and bedding grants: Up to £95 per adult and £60 per child (maximum £400 per household)
For example, a family of four (two adults, two children) could receive £310 for clothing and bedding alone, which, combined with fuel and toiletries support, could reach the £500 maximum assistance level.
Additional Support Options
The scheme offers comprehensive assistance beyond necessities. Local authorities can help with:
- Essential household appliances (fridges, freezers, and ovens)
- Emergency heating and lighting repairs
- Housing cost assistance (excluding mortgages)
- Access to long-term food support through community initiatives
How to Apply
Applicants must provide:
- National Insurance number
- ARC number (asylum seekers)
- Evidence of financial hardship through bank statements and benefits documentation
Processing times currently stand at 5-10 working days for fuel vouchers and 4–6 weeks for household essentials. These timeframes reflect the high volume of applications being processed.
- Monthly funding is limited and applications may close when allocation is reached
- Support is available even for those who have received previous cost-of-living payments
- The scheme particularly targets households that may not qualify for other government support
- Applications can be made online or by calling 08085 834333
- In-person support is available at Broadgate House customer service centre
As for the future, the government has engaged £1 billion to further the scheme until 2025-2026 for the protection of vulnerable households spread all across the country.