Households in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole can now apply for a £150 cost of living payment starting today, December 8, 2023. This initiative aims to support families struggling to meet essential expenses amid rising living costs. The funding is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), a program administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that allocates money to local councils for distribution to those in need.
Applications for the £150 grant voucher payment are open until January 30, 2024. Importantly, individuals do not need to be receiving benefits to qualify for this support. Instead, applicants must demonstrate to their local council that they are facing financial difficulties affecting their ability to pay for essential items.
According to Citizens Advice, there is significant demand for HSF grants, and the processing of applications may take up to eight weeks. While every effort will be made to assist eligible applicants, Citizens Advice has cautioned that funding is often limited, and not all applications may be approved. The organization noted, “Receipt of a HSF grant is not guaranteed, and your application may be rejected due to a lack of available funds.”
The HSF is a national program, but the distribution methods and amounts can vary by region. For instance, some councils provide cash payments, while others issue supermarket vouchers or energy bill credits.
In addition to the £150 payment, several other local councils offer varying amounts under the same fund. For example, Surrey County Council is providing up to £300 in supermarket vouchers through its Everyday Essentials E-voucher scheme funded by the HSF. Nottingham City Council offers £100 in vouchers monthly, while Doncaster Council provides cost of living payments of up to £300 for households with children.
The UK government emphasizes that the funding is intended for those who are vulnerable and unable to afford essentials. Importantly, receiving a payment from the HSF will not affect any benefits individuals may already be receiving. Each council has the discretion to define its own eligibility criteria, how applications are processed, and the distribution of funds. Some councils may collaborate with local charities and community groups, while others limit applications to one per household per year.
As the cost of living continues to challenge many households, these financial supports aim to alleviate some of the burdens faced by residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, as well as across various regions in England.
