HOUSEHOLDS struggling with the cost of living can get their hands on free or cheap white goods including cookers, fridges and washing machines.
If you can’t afford to purchase essential white goods there are a number of schemes available which can help.
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The average household will see their energy bills rise from £1,971 to £3,549 from October 1.
And households already struggling will be bracing for a tough winter as the price of goods have pushed inflation up to 10.1%.
But there is help on offer. Local councils have schemes in place to help those struggling financially by providing essential furniture and white goods.
Over 3,000 charities are also giving away cash grants to help low-income households afford cookers, fridge freezers and washing machines.
For example, Kent County Council offers households facing financial hardship free white goods.
Under the Kent Support and Assistance Service, households can get broken households appliances replaced free of charge.
To be eligible for the scheme, you must:
- be aged 16 or over
- live in Kent
- live on a low working income, or receive a means-tested benefit if not in employment
- have no access to savings or support from other sources.
You’ll then be expected to provide proof of why you need extra support. Screenshots of your online banking statement, proof of earnings and benefit entitlement will all be required.
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Bolton Council’s Local Welfare Provision service is there to help households experiencing financial crisis.
The council can provide struggling households with basic furniture and essential white goods.
The scheme is run on a case-by-case basis and there’s no specific eligibility requirement so you’ll need to apply for help online to check if you’re eligible.
Hackney Council’s discretionary crisis support scheme can help households by providing essential appliances and white goods such as a cooker, fridge, freezer or washing machine.
Households could also be provided with bedding, mattresses, furniture and in some cases floor coverings like lino and carpets.
All requests for help will be considered based on the circumstances behind the application, the household income and savings, and other specialist care and/or support that may be available.
If you need advice and guidance on how to apply to the Hackney discretionary crisis support scheme you’ll need to call 0208 356 3000.
Check if you can get a charity grant
There are more than 3,000 charities giving cash to buy white goods.
We have listed some of the main charities offering help here but to quickly check what you’re entitled to, see the grant checker on the charity website Turn2Us.
Most charities and organisations require you to fill out an application form online or in person listing the reasons why you need help.
A response will then be sent to you with details on how you can claim the money needed.
