Thousands of households have been encouraged to apply for a £100 cash benefit under the Household Support Fund. This fund, managed by local councils, aims to assist low-income families with essential expenses like food, energy, and water.
Various councils provide support in the form of vouchers or direct cash payments, depending on their discretion. City of York Council has highlighted that over 2,000 eligible residents in their area have yet to claim the one-time £100 payment available this season.
The payment is transferred directly to recipients’ bank accounts and does not require repayment. Eligibility criteria include receiving council tax assistance. Nearly 5,000 individuals in York are eligible for the benefit, with council letters already dispatched containing application details.
Applicants must submit a recent bank statement displaying personal details and a deadline of November 23, 2025, has been set for claims. Cllr Katie Lomas, City of York Council’s Executive Member, emphasized the importance of claiming the fund before the deadline, stressing that the money, provided by the Government, is a grant, not a loan.
Residents outside York are advised to explore similar support options available through their respective councils. For instance, Portsmouth City Council is granting £150 to single individuals and £200 to couples or families meeting specific income criteria.
To qualify, individuals must be receiving certain benefits and have a household income below specified thresholds. Ensuring that everyone entitled to financial aid receives it is crucial, especially given the challenges posed by the current cost of living crisis.