Struggling households offered help with food and fuel

Thousands of households in England can apply for payments to cover food and fuel costs.

Under the household support fund, the government has shared out £842m between councils to help people struggling with the rising cost of living.

Councils decide how to distribute the money they’re received, so the help on offer will vary depending on where you live.

Some are giving out food vouchers and others are paying the money direct into people’s bank accounts.

To find out what’s on offer in your area, visit your local council’s website.

What one council is offering

Bury Council is offering between £100 and 300 towards the cost of food and fuel. Payments are made based on income and household costs. You don’t need to be on benefits to qualify.

In the space of a month, the council has paid out £27,000 to 430 people.

It’s also offering up to £5,000 for joint community projects or £2,000 for solo initiatives tackling issues including debt, childhood poverty and digital exclusion. Bids for this funding must be submitted by 5 September.

They are also offering funding to groups supporting veterans and cadets. Councillor Richard Gold explained:

“The impact of the closure of the Drill Hall, the legacy of Covid on people’s wellbeing and connections, and ongoing financial and broader social pressures as a result of the cost of living are having a particular effect on our veterans and cadets.”

Other help

As well as getting help from the local council, if you’re struggling with the cost of living, you may be able to apply for a charitable grant. Find out more in our guide.