Overview

• The UK Government has extended the Household Support Fund through March 2026, allocating £742 million for local council distribution.
• Councils have launched summer schemes offering one-off cash grants and supermarket or free school meal vouchers to households struggling with energy, food and essential costs.
• Ribble Valley Borough Council is awarding food vouchers worth £200 to £500 to families with incomes below £35,000, with applications open until July 11 or while funds last.
• Birmingham City Council is providing £200 grants to residents in urgent financial need, regardless of benefit status, through an online application portal.
• Other councils are targeting support at specific groups, including free school meal families in Bristol, pensioners in Hull, and low-income households in Doncaster and Hartlepool.