HARD-UP households can apply for free up to £300 vouchers to spend at supermarkets from today – and get the cash in time for Easter.
The help comes via the Household Support Fund, which is a £742million pot of money that’s been shared between councils in England.
Local authorities are distributing their share of the fund, which runs until March 31, 2026, to households in need.
From April 1, it’ll be replaced by the Government’s new Crisis and Resilience Fund.
In most cases, financial support is currently given to residents who are on benefits, low incomes or classed as vulnerable.
For example, Surrey County Council is offering £200 e-vouchers for single person households while those with children can get £300.
Read more on financial help
The vouchers can be redeemed at a supermarket of the recipient’s choice and are valid in nine major chains, including Aldi, Asda, Farmfoods, Iceland, The Food Warehouse, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose.
The council runs monthly application windows through its website, and the latest one opens today, March 4, at 1pm.
It’s best to be quick as applications will close once all funds have been allocated.
The Surrey scheme is open to any resident who:
- is over the age of 18 living in Surrey
- has household savings of £2,000 or less on average over a 90-day period
- an annual household income under £27,007.50 before taxes and deductions.
To get the cash, you’ll need to provide financial evidence of why you need help. This could include details of your household’s income and benefits.
If you’re successful, you’ll be sent your e-voucher by email within four weeks.
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 £742million 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.
