Household Support Fund extended

The fund that has been helping people afford things like food and essential items over the last three years has been extended by a further six months.

The Household Support Fund was launched in 2021, as part of the government’s response to the cost-of-living crisis. After giving out more than £2.5 billion in that time, the government was due to end the fund on 31 March 2024.

But after pressure from local councils, the scheme has now been extended by a further six months, meaning another £500 million will be available to vulnerable people before 30 September 2024.

Local councils administer the scheme. Each council runs the scheme differently, but support could come in the form of:

• Cash grants or vouchers for food
• Energy vouchers
• Cost-of-living payments
• Free school meals
• Financial support to fix boilers, provide white goods or replace broken boilers
• Support for local charities like foodbanks
• Targeted, tailored support based on individual need

Eligibility for the scheme differs from council to council, but people don’t have to be receiving benefits to qualify.

To find out about your scheme locally, check with your local council to see what support is available.

If you are struggling with your household bills, support continues to be available from the Trust.

• See our grants page for funds available to both British Gas and non-British Gas customers
• Find a Trust funded money and energy advice project in your area
• Check the Bounce Back Checklist, Better Off Calculator or Lightning Reach portal for other support schemes you could be eligible for
• Rightsteps wellbeing platform offers self-guided support for those struggling with their mental wellbeing