UK households have just one day left to apply for financial assistance worth up to £1,000 as part of a government initiative aimed at alleviating the cost of living crisis.
With the deadline fast approaching, thousands of eligible families are urged to submit their applications for supermarket vouchers or cash payments before midday on Friday, March 14.
Portsmouth City Council, which is administering the scheme, has warned that applications will close early if the available funding is exhausted before the deadline.
The payments are part of a broader effort to support low-income families facing mounting financial pressures, especially in light of rising costs for food, energy, and other essentials, as reported by Birmingham Live.
Financial Help for Struggling Households
According to Portsmouth City Council, households experiencing severe financial hardship are encouraged to apply for the cost of living payment, which offers a combination of supermarket vouchers and direct cash payments.
The exact amount varies depending on individual circumstances, but eligible families can receive up to £1,000 in assistance. To apply, applicants must provide evidence of their income, expenditures, and bank accounts, demonstrating their need for support.
For families with children, there are additional measures in place. Families with children from Reception to Year 11 have automatically received £50 supermarket vouchers per child this winter, while others may qualify for a range of support depending on their income level.
If a family does not meet the criteria for free school meals, they are still encouraged to check their eligibility for the Family Voucher Scheme.
Additionally, single adults under 25, as well as couples, can apply for one-off payments to help with energy costs. This aid is available to those receiving Universal Credit and earning below specified thresholds. For instance, singles earning £900 or less and couples earning £1,300 or less may be eligible for energy cost assistance, according to the council.
The Urgency of Applying Before the Deadline
With the scheme’s application window closing on Friday, March 14, time is running out for those who may be eligible for the assistance. Those unable to apply online are advised to contact the Household Support Fund helpline for support.
This initiative is vital for many households struggling to make ends meet, offering much-needed relief to families who might otherwise find it difficult to cover basic living expenses. As the cost of living continues to place strain on low-income families, such government support schemes provide a vital lifeline.
However, due to limited funding, the scheme may close early if the available funds are depleted before the official deadline. Therefore, the urgency of applying before the cutoff cannot be overstated.
