Thousands of households can get free cash for food, energy and heating – are you eligible?
THOUSANDS of households can claim free cash to help with household bills and essentials such as groceries.
The Government's Household Support Fund has been DOUBLED and local councils are starting to reveal what help they will provide.
The scheme originally launched in October 2021 and was set to finish in March.
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak revealed in his Spring Statement that he was adding another £500million to the scheme, which will now continue until September.
The extension offers support for families who can’t afford living costs, and applications are open now for residents of Salford City Council.
The Household Support Fund sees money dished out to local councils across the country to help provide support to low income and vulnerable residents in their area.
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Each local authority decides what help to give and who is eligible.
For example, Torbay Council is giving out £50 towards food to help cash-strapped residents, and another £50 towards energy bills.
So it's worth and finding out what help is on offer in your area.
Salford residents will be able to claim support under the scheme to help cover the cost of essentials such as bills or furniture.
Vulnerable households in the area can now access support to help them with the cost of living and other essentials.
You do not need to be on benefits to apply, but you must provide evidence that you do not have the funds to help with living costs.
Funding is available through Salford City Council’s Salford Assist team.
The support will mostly be awarded in a way of a grant, offering money for household needs. These include:
- Purchasing food
- Household heating
- Help in paying energy, water and utility bills
- Thermal curtains to keep homes warm
Salford Assist will also help with referrals to other agencies to ensure you are getting the help you need.
If you're not sure whether you fit the criteria, speak to the council directly.
You have to fill out an online form to apply for the cash support, and you may be asked for evidence of your financial struggle.
Councillor Sharmina August of Salford Council said the local authority receive 7,162 applications in the first six months of the scheme, and has received 689 since it reopened in May.
She said: "These ranged from help with fuel bills to the cost of beds and other furniture.
“In addition to that we provided food vouchers for 13,000 children who already receive free school meals and referred 7,000 people to our local foodbanks."
The Sun has asked the council exactly how much residents can claim and we'll update this story when we know more.
What other help can I get?
There are other schemes in place that may be able to provide support if you are struggling to afford essentials.
It's worth using a benefits calculator to check what you may be entitled to.
Charities such as that can help.
You may also be available for a grant from energy providers, which have hardship funds that pay out up to £750 to those in energy debt.
Water companies are also offering up to £800 for those in debt.
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And if you're struggling with debt, you can contact charities and organisations which can offer free help and advice:
- National Debtline - 0808 808 4000
- Step Change - 0800 138 1111
- Citizens Advice - 0808 800 9060
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