THOUSANDS of families may be eligible for one-off payments of up to £250 before spring next year.
The government’s Household Support fund is being distributed by councils throughout the country and some families have already started getting payments.
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The funds are intended to help those struggling with essentials like energy bills, as well as other necessities like food, and clothing.
Each council’s allocation of the £842 million fund will vary so the amount available for residents will differ.
In Kensington and Chelsea, households are being offered a maximum of £250 cash payments or bank transfers to help with the cost of living.
Eligible residents must:
- Live in the borough.
- Have limited or no savings.
- Provide a recent bank statement.
Kensington and Chelsea have confirmed their £2.36million fund will be paid throughout this financial year and residents can access an online form or email to make a claim.
Applications close by the end of March 2024 and approximately half of the fund has been spent so far, the council told The Sun.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, lead member for finance and customer delivery, said: “By listening to and understanding the needs of our residents, we have been able to put into place funding and support for so many during a challenging time.”
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“Now that further funding has become available, we can continue to offer targeted support to those facing difficulties, particularly those on low incomes.”
The council has also made available an additional £20k for up to £250 in grants to support younger residents (aged 11 to 19) with essentials.
Even if you don’t live in Kensington and Chelsea there still may be help available – simply check with your council.
To find your local council, use the gov.uk council finder tool.
Once you’ve found it, there should be information on what’s available and how to apply on its website.
Those living in Dudley could get up to £275 to help towards the cost of living from this month.
In North Yorkshire, thousands of locals received electronic supermarket vouchers worth up to £325.
In Tandrige applications for residents to apply for a payment of up to £350 open in December.
In other councils – including Buckinghamshire, North Norfolk, and Shropshire – details are still being finalised for the period between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024.
What other help is out there?
Council tax discount
You could be eligible for a council tax discount depending on your circumstances. To apply for any of the below discounts, go through the government website.
If you live on your own, you can get 25% off your council tax bill.
If you live with someone who doesn’t have to pay council tax, such as a carer or someone who is severely mentally impaired, you could get a larger reduction too, of up to 50%.
And, if you live in an all-student household, you could get a 100% discount.
Pensioners may also find themselves eligible for a council tax reduction.
Grants and hardship funds
Some energy suppliers are offering grants to those who are really struggling and need help paying off debts.
Scottish Power, for example, gives up to £750 per household to the most hard-up households.
Most hardship funds have no deadline and you can apply all year round.
There is no specific eligibility criteria, but most customers who get help are in arrears on their bill.
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