PAY DAY
Thousands of struggling households have just HOURS to claim free £50 vouchers
Scroll down to find out what council tax support is available
THOUSANDS of struggling households only have hours to claim their free £50 vouchers.
Families in Peterborough can claim £50 food vouchers to help with their living costs.
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However, eligible households will need to be quick because the deadline to claim is midnight tonight.
The free food vouchers are part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), which has been extended to provide vital assistance to households facing financial hardship.
These vouchers have been a lifeline for families, especially during the school summer holidays when the pressure to provide meals is at its peak.
WHAT IS HSF?
The Household Support Fund is a government initiative designed to help families with the rising cost of living.
vouchers
First introduced in October 2021, the scheme has been extended five times, with councils across the UK receiving a portion of a £421million pot to distribute to those in need.
The support available varies by location, but it could include supermarket vouchers, energy bill support, or even cash grants.
This interactive map allows families outside of Peterborough to check what support is available and how much they may be entitled to.
And don't worry, receiving this support won't affect any other benefits you're claiming.
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WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
The scheme is open to families in Peterborough with children and young people who meet specific criteria.
You could be eligible if you receive:
- Income-related Free School Meals (for children aged 4-16).
- Early Years Pupil Premium under income-based criteria.
- Funded Childcare and Education for two-year-olds under income-based criteria.
In total, an estimated 13,000 children and young people are eligible for this support, potentially leading to more than £650,000 in vouchers being distributed across Peterborough.
The vouchers were delivered electronically via text and email starting July 20, based on data held by the council.
But there's a catch: all coupons must be activated by midnight tonight.
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Peterborough City Council is urging residents to check if they qualify for free school meals during term time.
If you do, there's a good chance you're eligible for these summer holiday vouchers too.
Councillor Katy Cole, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Education, said: “These vital vouchers have helped thousands of families across the city.
"If you're eligible and haven't signed up yet, please consider doing so.”
HOW TO APPLY
If you live in Peterborough and think you might be eligible, check with the council's website for details on how to apply.
Each council has its own application process, so it’s essential to follow the specific instructions for your area.
In some cases, councils may contact you directly if you qualify, but if you haven't heard anything and believe you're eligible, it's worth reaching out.
Meanwhile, with the ever-rising inflation driving up the price of groceries, many families are struggling to keep up with costs.
But thousands of families across the UK can claim vouchers to spend at Tesco, Aldi and Iceland. We share which areas are offering the most support.
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Elsewhere, waste reduction experts reveal how families can slash the cost of their weekly shop, as one woman puts their tips to the test.
You can also find five secrets to getting your groceries for less.
What council tax support is available?
THERE are several ways you can get discounts and reductions on your council tax bill.
In some cases, you can even get the bill completely wiped with a council tax reduction.
Factors such as your household income, whether you have children, and if you receive any benefits, will influence what you get.
To apply, visit //www.gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction.
You'll need your National Insurance number, bank statements, a recent payslip or letter from the Jobcentre, and a passport or driving licence when filling out the details.
Below, we reveal all the ways you can get discounts or a reduction on your bill:
Single person discount
If you live on your own, you can get 25% off your council tax bill.
This also applies if there is one adult and one student living together in a property, or if there is one adult and one person classed as severely mentally impaired in the home.
If you live with someone who doesn't have to pay council tax, such as a carer or someone who is severely mentally impaired, you could get a larger reduction too, of up to 50%.
And, if you live in an all-student household, you could get a 100% discount.
Retirees
Pensioners may also find themselves eligible for a council tax reduction.
If you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, you could get a 100% discount.
If not, you could still get help if you have a low income and less than £16,000 in savings.
And a pensioner who lives alone will be entitled to a 25% discount too.
Low-income households
If you are on a low income or receiving benefits, you could be eligible for a reduction on your council tax.
Whether you are eligible will vary depending on where you live.
You could also get a deferral if you're struggling to pay your bill, or you can speak to your council about setting up a payment plan to manage the cost.
But one thing to remember is if you are struggling you should contact your council as early as you can
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