DWP help of up to £200 for vulnerable people on low incomes - how to apply
by Kieran Isgin · ChronicleLiveThe chill of winter often brings with it heightened financial strain for households, especially in light of the recent 10 per cent surge in energy bills and the ongoing drop in temperatures. However, Brits may find some relief through the Household Support Fund (HSF), designed to provide additional financial aid during these colder months.
This government initiative was first introduced in October 2021 and has since seen multiple extensions, the latest of which ensures its availability until March 2025. The DWP has further bolstered the fund with an injection of £421 million, set to be distributed amongst local authorities across England.
Additional funds have been earmarked for devolved social security administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Local councils are then tasked with utilising these resources in a manner they deem most beneficial for their residents.
Certain councils may also offer assistance towards the acquisition of essential household appliances such as fridges, freezers, and ovens, arrange for engineers to carry out necessary heating or lighting repairs, and provide support with housing costs (excluding mortgages) in emergency situations where existing schemes fall short. Others have implemented voucher schemes aimed at aiding individuals and families, reports the Manchester Evening News.
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Seeking winter aid from your local authority.
The government has emphasised that the Household Support Fund is designated for "anyone who's vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council".
Moreover, even claimants of benefits should note that their ongoing payments won't be impacted by any supplementary funds received from the HSF. Though, the distribution of this fund is at the discretion of individual councils, meaning they determine who qualifies for aid.
Thus, eligibility requirements may differ across councils, requiring direct contact to ascertain if you might qualify. A straightforward approach to learn about your local council's HSF policy is through the governments online directory, guiding users to their local council's webpage for further details.
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