The Household Support Fund is a pot of cash that is distributed by local councils to struggling or vulnerable residents
Struggling pensioner households could be entitled to a £200 payment through a new cost of living scheme. Hull City Council is issuing the support as part of the Household Support Fund.
The Household Support Fund is a pot of cash that is distributed by local councils to struggling or vulnerable residents. The help provided is usually cash grants or vouchers to pay bills, but it does vary between local authorities.
Hull City Council has been awarded £5.3million from the Household Support Fund, which has been extended several times before. Pensioner households who are eligible will receive £200 after the Government made cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment.
Meanwhile, low income families will get a £40 school uniform grant, as well as food vouchers in school holidays for those eligible for school meals.
Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Mike Ross, said: “We know that people are continuing to be severely impacted by the ongoing increases in the cost of living.
“As a Council, we’re using this funding to help vulnerable residents afford the essentials. No-one should have to make the choice between heating or eating when we get to the colder months, so we’ve allocated this money now to make sure we have the right things in place for the next year.”
Councillor Ross added: “While we await clarity on the Government’s reforms to the Winter Fuel Payment, it is important that our older people know what help they are eligible for, and we realise there could be many who are entitled to Pension Credit who are not receiving it.
“Anyone who gets Pension Credit also gets the Winter Fuel Payment and may also be able to claim further help with things like housing costs, council tax and heating bills.
“It is right that the council supports Age UK to provide expert advice to pensioners to ensure they can maximise their incomes.”
If you’re not a Hull resident, it is worth checking what support your local council can offer you through the Household Support Fund.
For example, Hartlepool Borough Council is awarding £100 food vouchers to all households where a child is aged between two and 19 and is eligible for free school meals.
Meanwhile, households with pensioners who are in receipt of council tax support will get £100 in bank payments or food vouchers this year.
Worcestershire County Council is giving Malvern, Worcester, Wychavon, Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest residents up to £500 in energy help.
There is up to £500 available for homes with children under 18 or full-time students under 21, or up to £300 for adult-only households aged 18–66. Pensioner households can also get up to £300.