Thousands of families can get up to £120 FREE cash from their council – here’s how

STRUGGLING homeowners can claim up to £120 free cash to help pay bills.

The extra support comes as part of the government's Household Support Scheme (HSF) initiative.

began in October 2021 with a £500million plan to help vulnerable households.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak doubled the scheme in February this year to £1billion, and announced in May that a further £500million would be added to the pot.

Living costs have risen even more with inflation soaring and rocketing energy prices.

So the government has stepped in to help those on the brink with free cash, vouchers and more support.

How can I claim £120 free cash?

Each council decides how to use its budget to help local residents. Whether that be with free cash, supermarket vouchers or money towards school meals, support typically varies.

Not all residents will be eligible for support, though, so check your local council website for more information.

In families can get help during the school term break and pensioners receiving council tax support can also claim.

Online application forms are available now for Derby residents.

But you'll need to provide proof of benefits in your latest bank statement to be eligible for support.

Successful applications will receive a one-off payment in vouchers to the amount of:

• £120 for a household with children
• £100 for a couple
• £80 for a single person

The council website said families could claim free school meals, with £10 available per child during the summer holidays.

The support will come in the form of vouchers, provided through schools, with one payment in May and another in July.

Vouchers can be redeemed at any combination of these supermarket chains:

• Aldi
• Asda
• Farmfoods
• Iceland
• Marks and Spencer
• Morrisons
• Sainsbury's
• Tesco
• Waitrose

Financial support going towards pensioners in receipt of Council Tax Support will come as a one-off payment of £115, sent directly to your household.

The council said it aims to make payments roughly 10 working days after you've submitted your form, so be quick.

Can I get help if I don't live in Derby?

Yes. Each council has been given a portion of the funding to help local residents nationwide.

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, Torbay Council offers residents a maximum amount of £50 towards food or energy bills.

The government's  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

Charities and organisations may also be able to help, on top of the providers that offer their own grants.

Here are some contacts that could lend a helping hand for the time being:

• National Debtline - 0808 808 4000
• Step Change - 0800 138 1111
• Citizens Advice - 0808 800 9060