Last few weeks to claim cost-of-living support

The household support fund (HSF) is ending on 31 March 2025, so if you need help, don’t wait. 

The HSF was set up in 2021 to help people across the UK cope with the rising cost of living. Money is distributed to local councils who then decide how best to help people locally. 

You don’t need to pay it back. 

The funds are used to help assist households struggling with essentials like: 

• energy and water bills 

• food and groceries 

• rent or mortgage payments 

• clothing and household appliances 

Who can get help? 

The HSF supports those who are vulnerable or can't afford essential living costs. Local councils set their own criteria, but generally, you may be eligible if: 

• you’re on benefits or have a low income 

• you’re a pensioner facing fuel poverty 

• you’re disabled and need extra support 

• you have young children or vulnerable dependents 

What can you get? 

The support is typically provided as cash or vouchers, but councils can also use the fund to help with: 

• school uniforms 

• key appliances 

• cookery classes 

• energy efficiency improvements in homes 

Why it’s been so important  

Since it was launched, the fund has been extended several times, each for another six months.  

In September 2024, the government announced it would be extended again to cover the winter months. The government said the £421m extension would provide stability to councils across England until April 2025.  

Councils in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were also given £79m between them to distribute to residents in need. 

It’s been a lifeline for those most affected by rising costs. Recent research by the Department for Work and Pensions found that 98% of recipients say the HSF has had at least one positive benefit.  

• 78% say it’s helped them pay for food and groceries 

• 61% avoided borrowing money thanks to the fund58% say it’s kept their homes warm  

• 38% reported feeling less stressed and anxious 

• 32% feel more confident managing their household finances 

How to apply for HSF 

The deadline to apply for an HSF payment is 31 March 2025.  

It’s not yet confirmed if the fund will be extended beyond this date, so contact your local council now to find out if you’re eligible.  

There should be information on eligibility criteria and how to apply on their website. But if there isn’t, give them a ring. 

Other emergency help  

If you're struggling to pay for essentials, don’t forget there are other forms of support: 

• Welfare assistance schemes offer emergency loans, grants, food vouchers or free second-hand furniture. 

England: get in touch with your local council. 

Scotland: find out if you can apply for a crisis grant or a community care grant through the Scottish welfare fund. 

Wales: you might be able to apply for help through the discretionary assistance fund. 

Northern Ireland: you may be able to apply for help through the finance support service. 

• Grants - you may be eligible for grants that don’t need to be repaid. Turn2Us can help match you with any grants you may be able to apply for.  

• Rent - if you’re on housing benefits and struggling to pay your rent, you might qualify for a discretionary housing payment.  

• Mortgage - if you can’t pay your mortgage, contact your provider. Lenders have a duty to help you and may be able to offer options like payment holidays or switching to interest-only payments. 

• Utility bills - contact your energy supplier if you need emergency credit. Some suppliers also have hardship funds for customers who are struggling.  

• Food costs - check if you're eligible for free school meals and contact your local food bank for emergency supplies.  

• Baby essentials - local baby banks may be able to help.  

Get more information on emergency support.