The UK government, through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has released a new round of funding designed to support vulnerable households in Blackpool coping with the ongoing Cost of Living crisis.
This initiative forms part of the broader Household Support Fund, a national scheme aimed at delivering targeted relief where it is most needed.
According to Birmingham Mail, the financial assistance will take the form of direct payments to eligible households based on size and specific criteria.
Local authorities are tasked with distributing this aid to those struggling with immediate expenses linked to utilities and basic living needs.
Funding Valid Until March 2026 or Until Resources Are Exhausted
According to the Blackpool Council, which last updated the fund’s information on 9 April 2025, the scheme will run from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, or while funding lasts.
The Household Support Fund is a national scheme to provide support to vulnerable households in most need of help with significantly rising living costs – said a spokesperson for Blackpool Council.
The scheme awards £300 to eligible households with three or more people, and £200 to those with one or two. Payments are limited to one award per household in any 12-month period, with the council noting :
Due to limited funding we will only make one award per household within a 12 month period.
Eligibility is not contingent on receiving Universal Credit or any other DWP benefit.
Eligibility Requirements and Documentation
To apply, individuals must :
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be permanent residents of Blackpool
- Be responsible for paying the utility bills at the residence
- Be experiencing financial hardship
Household members, including children, must also be permanent residents. Children must have child benefit in payment at the same address to qualify.
Applicants must provide :
- A copy of a recent gas, electricity, or water bill showing name, address, supplier, and account number
- If using a pre-payment meter, applicants must create an online account with their supplier and provide a screenshot that clearly displays their name, address, supplier name, and pre-pay account number
School Meal Vouchers for Eligible Families
Families with children who attend Blackpool schools and are normally eligible for free school meals during term time will automatically receive £15 supermarket food vouchers per week, per eligible child, during school holidays through 31 March 2025.
This Cost of Living measure is temporary and is not mandated by statutory requirements. Distribution is handled directly by schools and does not require an application.
Care leavers responsible for household bills will receive food vouchers and may also qualify for a bus pass scheme to assist with transportation. These supports are administered by caseworkers and do not require a separate application.
Voluntary Sector Funding Fully Allocated
The fund also supported voluntary sector organisations that proposed cost of living relief projects. According to Blackpool Council, all grants for the current round have been allocated, and no new applications are being accepted at this time.
Residents may be eligible for other local support, such as the Council Tax Reduction Scheme and the Warm and Healthy Homes project. These initiatives aim to provide ongoing relief for households facing long-term financial stress.
