Household Support Fund: Who is eligible, how do I apply and what changes have been made? UK News

Originally announced in September 2021, Rishi Sunak announced during the spring statement that the household support fund would be doubled from £500m to £1bn.

The fund was set up to help people in the UK to cope with the general increase in the cost of living, as well as the increase in inflation, which rose by 8% (the highest in 30 years).

The fund will be distributed to local councils, who will then choose how to spend it. For example, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council will be handing out vouchers worth up to £200, which people can spend at certain stores. So how the money is spent will vary from council to council.

Following the Covid pandemic, families across the country have taken a financial hit, with many being pushed closer or into poverty (including those in Sheffield). With inflation rising and the cost of living rising in the UK, the number of poor households could very well increase.

To apply for the Household Support Fund you must be over 16 – however some councils insist that you must be over 18. Single applicants can also apply – you do not need to live with a partner or children to receive the grant.

Half of the grant has been earmarked for households with children – the aim of the Household Support Fund is to help families in poverty across the UK. Despite this, anyone struggling to make ends meet is theoretically eligible to receive the grant.

If you have savings or funds to fall back on, you are unlikely to be considered eligible to receive part of the Household Support Fund.

You will need to prove that you need the grant to receive it, based on your ability to financially support basic needs. On top of that, some councils only give the funds to people who have already applied for benefits or Universal Credit – it’s a good idea to check with your local council to see how they will use the money. If you don’t know what your local council is, you can find out using GOV.UK.

Proof that you need the grant will include proof of expenses or income, as well as your address and proof that you live there (or have a rental at the address listed).

You will also be asked to provide your national insurance number in order to apply, including the national insurance numbers of anyone you live with, so make sure you have them handy. If your grant application is denied, you will have seven days to appeal the decision.