Struggling households urged to check local cost-of-living support

Households in England struggling with the rising cost of living are being urged to get in contact with their local council to see what support is available.

The government has given a total of £842m to English local authorities this year to use in whatever way they think will best help struggling households in their area.

More than 26 million awards so far

The household support fund was launched in October 2021 and has made more than 26 million awards in that time, according to figures from the Department for Work and Pensions.

This includes more than £800m that has been paid to households with children.

What can you get?

Support is available to help cover the cost of essentials like food, toiletries, clothes and energy bills.

What’s on offer will depend on where you live.

In parts of Buckinghamshire, there’s a warm box scheme to help people fight off the cold through the winter. Elsewhere in parts of Kent, struggling households can get help buying essential white goods and furniture.

Cost-of-living pressures remain

The secretary of state for work and pensions, Mel Stride, said:

“The best way we can protect family finances is by driving down inflation but, as it reduces, we recognise that cost-of-living pressures remain for some of the most vulnerable households.

“Our record £842m cash injection to the household support fund in England this year means that people most in need will be able to get extra support locally to cover the essentials.”

Get more information

Find out more about the household support fund, including whether you’re likely to qualify and how to apply.