HARD-UP households can claim up to £90 for food and other essentials.
The extra help comes as part of the Household Support Fund (HSF) scheme.
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The scheme started in October 2021 with £500million in funding given to help vulnerable households across the country.
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak doubled the funding this February, then added an extra £500million last month.
As the cost of living worsens and thousands of households continue to struggle, the HSF has been extended to provide as much support as possible.
Here’s how you can claim support to help cover your bills.
How can I claim £90?
Each council is given a portion of funding to distribute however they like.
They might give you free cash, vouchers or discount codes, so your local council might be different.
We’d recommend checking your council website to see what’s available for you.
In Slough, families or individuals can get help if they’re struggling to afford food, bills, clothing or other sanitary products.
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The council will give the following to anyone who is eligible for support:
- Food vouchers
- Vouchers for essential goods
- Help paying for fuel
A third of the council’s funding will go towards families with children. These families will get £15 in the form of food vouchers per week per child over the school summer holidays.
A further third of funding will go to pensioners.
Online application forms are available now for Slough residents, so if you live in the area it’s worth finding out what help is available.
What makes me eligible?
Again, each council has its own set of requirements, so it’s best to check your local website for your own.
Often you’ll need to provide evidence of benefits or low income on your latest bank statement.
Slough Borough Council will be making direct contact with those who are eligible for the scheme.
Some funding will be put aside for anyone who contacts the council for support, but it will be on a first come, first served basis – so it’s best to act sooner rather than later.
The requirements include being 16 or over and having a settled residence in Slough.
Can I get help if I don’t live in Slough?
Yes. Each council has its own budget.
To find out what support is on offer in your area, speak directly to your local council, or visit its website for more details.
For example, Derby Council is offering £120 free cash to families over the summer break.
The government’s local council checker tool can help you find relevant support. All you need to do is type in your post code.
Also, if you find you’re not eligible but still need support, you can check in with your energy suppliers to see what grants are on offer.
Don’t forget to contact these helplines if you need a helping hand fast. They’ll help tide you over for a while:
- National Debtline – 0808 808 4000
- Step Change – 0800 138 1111
- Citizens Advice – 0808 800 9060
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