Overview

• The Department for Work and Pensions has allocated £742 million to local authorities via the Household Support Fund, securing support through March 2026.
• Payment amounts vary by council, with some boroughs issuing one-off £50 bonuses and others offering exceptional hardship grants up to £1,000.
• Aid is delivered in multiple forms, including direct cash payments, supermarket or energy vouchers and in-kind essentials such as washing machines, fridges and children’s beds.
• Eligibility criteria are set by each authority and generally consider household income, savings thresholds and receipt of benefits such as Universal Credit, with some schemes open to those without recourse to public funds.
• Local authorities are partnering with charities, community groups and professional referrers to identify vulnerable households; application processes and evidence requirements differ across regions.