Overview

• The Department for Work and Pensions has extended funding through its Household Support Fund to help local authorities deliver payments toward food, energy and other essentials.
• Birmingham City Council opened a £200 hardship grant scheme on June 23 with enquiries processed by the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council and successful applicants placed on a waiting list.
• Ealing Council is automatically issuing £90 supermarket vouchers per eligible child in July so households with two eligible children receive £180 without applying.
• Doncaster Council will disburse up to £300 for families with three or more children, £200 for two children or £100 for one, plus a separate £100 energy payment to qualifying households around July 15.
• Each council sets its own eligibility criteria and delivery methods—ranging from vouchers and bank transfers to cheques—and awards do not affect existing benefit entitlements.