The money is being distributed by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council as part of the Household Support Fund scheme – we explain who is eligible and how to apply
UK households are being urged to check if they can apply for cost of living support worth up to £300.
The money is being distributed by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council as part of the Household Support Fund scheme. Each council gets to decide what type of help it offers and it typically comes in the form of one-off payments, or supermarket or energy vouchers.
It is up to each local authority to also decide who is eligible for help. If you’re a Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole resident, you can receive a voucher to help with energy or food costs worth £300.
This is split into two £150 vouchers. In order to be eligible, you must be over the age of 16 and living independently of parents or carers and have no money to cover essential bills. You can apply for the help online through Citizens Advice during the following application windows:
- 9am on May 12, 2025 to 4.30pm on July 4, 2025
- 9am on July 21, 2025 to 4.30pm on September 12, 2025
- 9am on September 29, 2025 to 4.30pm on November 21, 2025
- 9am on December 8, 2025 to 4.30pm on January 30, 2026
The council is also giving eligible families £15 vouchers per child during the school half terms. Council leader Cllr Millie Earl said: “I’m pleased the HSF has been extended for a seventh round to support people with the cost of living.”
“The initiative can provide struggling households with crucial financial support, as well as practical advice and guidance from experts to help residents make their money go further.
“I urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to apply, and to make the most of the practical advice and guidance on offer.”
If you’re not a Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole resident, it is worth checking what support your local council can offer you. For example, Cambridgeshire County Council is awarding £180 worth of supermarket vouchers over the upcoming half terms and summer holiday to families that are normally in receipt of free school meals.
Some vouchers have already been given out over Easter. Another payment of £110 is also being awarded to some Cambridgeshire households that have £16,000 or less in money, savings, and investments, and earn below a certain threshold.
City of York Council is crediting £150 to your council tax account, as a direct discount off your bill, through the Household Support Fund. It is also providing a direct bank transfer worth £100.
There is also a discretionary scheme, for people who are not identified by the council as receiving a council tax discount. For this, you would need to apply to the council and show that you’re in need of financial assistance to help with the rising living costs.