HOUSEHOLDS will soon be able to apply for free supermarket vouchers to spend in Waitrose and M&S worth up to £320.
Families struggling with the cost of living can apply for the support through the government’s Household Support Fund.
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The help is part of a wider essential support scheme and is only awarded once to any eligible household.
Each council has its own share of the £742million, which they can dole out to residents in need.
Eligibility criteria for the support varies but usually you need to be on a low income or on benefits.
Residents of North Northamptonshire will soon be able to apply for supermarket vouchers worth up to £320.
Tokens can be used in a wide range of shops from Sainsbury’s and M&S to Waitrose and Asda.
The scheme was closed due to a high number of applications, but is due to reopen again in just a few days.
The second window of applications will re-open on August 4, 2025.
The amount you receive depends on a number of factors, including how many people you live with and your income.
For example, a person who lives alone will be given a voucher worth £150.
Meanwhile, a house with two residents could receive £260 for their food shop.
If you live in a home with three residents or more you will receive a voucher worth £320.
To apply you will need to have a National Insurance number and provide proof of your income with a bank statement.
The council said submissions are expected to take two months to process.
If approved, you voucher will be sent to your email address.
If you are keen to apply visit, www.northnorthants.gov.uk/support-offer/household-support-fund for more information.
What if I don’t live in North Northamptonshire?
The £742million Household Support Fund has been shared between all councils in England.
So, if you don’t live in this area but are struggling financially or are on benefits you will likely be eligible for help.
This is because the fund was originally set up to help those on low incomes or classed as vulnerable.
What type of help you can get will vary but it could range from a free cash payment to supermarket vouchers.
For example, residents in Worcestershire can apply for support worth up to £500 to help with water and energy costs.
Devon County Council has also issued supermarket vouchers worth more than £90 to 22,000 families with children on free school meals.
The £90 is equivalent to £15 per week for the six week school holiday.
Households in Redcar & Cleveland can also now apply for support worth up to £230.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you’re battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don’t delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it’s crucial you apply as soon as possible.
