If you’re finding it tough to keep up with the rising cost of living in 2025, you’re not alone and help is available. The UK Government has introduced several schemes to support households on low incomes, and one of the most important is the Household Support Fund (HSF). This program offers up to £300 or more in cash, vouchers, or other types of assistance to help with essentials like food, energy bills, or daily necessities.
Let’s break it all down in plain English and explore how it works, who qualifies, and how you can get the help you need—no matter where in England you live.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government-backed scheme designed to help struggling families and individuals across England. The latest round of this fund started in April 2025 and will run until March 2026.
In total, £742 million has been allocated by the government and distributed among all councils in England. That means each local authority (your council) has received a share of the money and decides how to distribute it to local people in need.
The goal? To provide extra financial support for those finding it hard to afford basic needs like:
- Food and groceries
- Heating and electricity bills
- Water bills
- Household items like clothing or bedding
- School uniforms and essential supplies for children
What Kind of Help Can You Get?
The kind of support offered depends entirely on where you live, as each council makes its own decisions about how to use the funds. Here are some common ways the help is provided:
- Cash Payments: Some councils send direct bank transfers worth up to £300 or more.
- Supermarket Vouchers: Others may send vouchers to be used at major supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi, or Asda.
- Energy Bill Support: You might get help paying off energy bills or topping up prepayment meters.
- School Holiday Support: Some councils give vouchers or meals during school holidays to help with feeding children.
So even though the fund is national, the details are local. That’s why it’s important to check your local council’s website or call them to see what’s available in your area.
Do You Have to Live in a Specific Place Like West Berkshire?
No. While West Berkshire is one of the areas currently promoting the scheme, every council in England has a portion of the fund. So whether you live in Manchester, Birmingham, Cornwall, Leeds, or anywhere else, you may still qualify.
The rules may be slightly different depending on the area, but the general purpose remains the same—to help low-income households get through tough times.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility varies between councils, but in general, you may qualify if:
- You’re on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or another means-tested benefit
- Your household is on a low income (even if you’re not on benefits)
- You’re struggling to pay for basic living expenses
- You’re a carer, disabled, or have young children
Even if you’re not sure whether you qualify, it’s worth checking with your local council. Some people miss out on help simply because they didn’t ask or look into it.
How Do You Apply?
Again, this depends on your local authority. Some councils automatically send support to eligible residents, while others require you to apply through an online form.
Here’s how to find out:
- Go to your council’s website
- Search for “Household Support Fund” or “cost of living help”
- See if applications are open and whether you need to submit proof (like income or benefit details)
- Follow instructions to apply, if needed
If you can’t find the right page, simply type your council name + Household Support Fund into Google, and it should appear.
Can You Still Apply If Applications Are Not Open?
Yes—but you might need to wait a bit. Since the new round of funding has just begun, not all councils have opened their application portals yet. However, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your council’s website or social media pages, because updates are usually posted there.
What If You’re Still Struggling?
If you’re facing ongoing financial problems, here are some additional forms of help available:
1. Check Your Benefit Eligibility
If you’re not claiming any benefits but are on a low income, use a benefits calculator like to see what you’re entitled to. You could be missing out on thousands of pounds per year.
2. Get Help With Energy Bills
If you’re behind on your gas or electric payments, some companies offer help:
- British Gas Energy Trust offers grants to clear energy debt, even if you’re not a customer.
- Octopus Energy also runs a support fund for customers in hardship.
3. Use a Local Food Bank
You can get free groceries if you’re struggling to afford food. Contact your local Trussell Trust food bank via trusselltrust.org.uk to find out how to get a referral and where your nearest location is.
Final Thoughts
Living costs in 2025 are higher than ever, but support is out there—you just have to know where to look. The Household Support Fund is a valuable safety net for millions of people, offering £300 or more to help make ends meet.
Whether you receive it as a cash payment or vouchers, it can provide real relief for day-to-day expenses. And if you don’t see the help straight away, stay updated through your local council—they’ll post when applications open or automatically send payments if you’re eligible.
FAQs
Q1. What is the £300 cost of living payment?
A: It’s a government support payment to help low-income households manage rising living costs.
Q2. Who is eligible for the £300 payment?
A: People receiving means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, JSA, or ESA during the qualifying period.
Q3. When are the payments being made?
A: Payments are being issued now, with most eligible households receiving them automatically.
Q4. Do I need to apply for the £300 payment?
A: No, the payment is made automatically if you’re eligible.
Q5. How will the payment be delivered?
A: It will be deposited directly into the bank account linked to your benefit payments.