Household support fund extended

The government has announced the household support fund (HSF) will continue for at least another six months until April 2025.

Over the last three years, the scheme has been a lifeline for those most affected by rising costs.

Councils in England will be given a share of £421m while Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive £79m.

The extension means vulnerable households will be able to ask for help with the costs of energy, food and water over the winter.

Figures show 1.3 million people have fallen into poverty since 2010, while living standards are the lowest since records began in the 1950s.

‘The right thing to do’

Chancellor Rachel Reeves says extending the HSF is “the right thing to do”.

Reeves recently came under fire for removing the winter fuel payment for all but the most cash-strapped pensioners to plug a £22bn blackhole in public spending.

The government says it’s also exploring options for providing long-term support to vulnerable households.

Applying for the household support fund

Details about the specific support available through the HSF will be available in the coming weeks.

Many councils previously chose to distribute their share of the fund as cash payments or vouchers, and that’s likely to continue.

Keep an eye on your local council website for further details, including information about how to apply.

If you can’t wait until then because you’re struggling financially, we can check you’re claiming all the support you’re entitled to. Use our benefits calculator or get in touch to find out more.