DWP Cost of Living Payments are Back: The Household Support Fund (DWP) aka Cost of Living is available to households who are in financial crisis and have energy debts. The grant is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, UK Government and administered by us.
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How funds will be allocated
Demand for support is high, but you should apply if you are facing significant hardship. We will need to ask for some information about your household and your financial situation.
Payments will be made to help households in immediate crisis – for example, those unable to buy food, pay energy bills or buy other essentials.
Payments are to help you get what you need while you look for support (such as advice on benefits and debt) from other organisations. We will put you in contact with those services if you need them.
If you are on a low income or have no access to other financial support and are struggling to pay your bills, you should make an application.
We welcome one application per household. You will be asked questions about your finances, including your income and savings, and you may need to provide proof to support your answers.
Ways to Welfare
Ways to Welfare is a referral-only service for residents struggling with financial hardship.
The scheme helps with costs towards:
- white goods
- furniture
- carpets
- clothing
- household essentials
- bedding
- towels
To apply, you need a referral from us, or a charity or an agency, like Age UK, DWP, and Citizen’s Advice.
If your household has received help from the DWP Household Support Fund, you may still qualify for Ways to Welfare, if a support agency is helping you.
Make an application
Applying online is the quickest way to apply. Your application will be assessed and prioritised by the Household Support Fund Team:
Or you can call the Household Support Fund Team on 0300 373 3300
Calls from a landline will cost up to 16p per minute and can cost anywhere from 3p to 65p per minute if calling from a mobile. Please check with your network provider for call charges to this number.
Our opening hours are Monday to Thursday 9am to 3pm and Friday 9am to 2:30pm.
How we use the funding
We are using this funding in a number of ways to provide support including:
- free school meals/school clothing grants
- supporting care leavers and foster carers
- supporting the holiday activity and food programme
- providing funding via our Locality Boards
On 19 March 2025, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced that the Household Support Fund would be extended for a further 12 months, from 1 April 2025 to the 31 March 2026. As has been done for previous schemes, the fund will be made available to support those households most in need.
FAQ
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a financial aid program provided by the UK government through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It helps households in financial crisis by covering essential costs such as food, energy bills, and household items. This fund is designed to support those facing significant hardship due to low income or no access to other financial assistance.
Who can apply for the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is available to households experiencing financial difficulties, particularly those struggling to pay for basic needs like food or energy bills. It is aimed at low-income families or individuals without other financial support. You can apply if you’re in immediate crisis, needing help to cover essential costs.
How do I apply for the Household Support Fund?
You can apply for the Household Support Fund online through the official application process. If you prefer, you can also call the Household Support Fund Team at 0300 373 3300 for assistance. The application will ask for details about your income, savings, and financial situation to assess your eligibility.
What is the Ways to Welfare program?
Ways to Welfare is a referral-only service that helps residents who are struggling financially. The program provides support for essential household items like white goods, furniture, carpets, clothing, and bedding. To apply, you need a referral from an agency, charity, or organization such as Age UK, DWP, or Citizen’s Advice.
Can I apply for the Household Support Fund and Ways to Welfare?
Yes, if your household has already received help from the Household Support Fund, you may still be eligible for the Ways to Welfare program, provided you have a referral from a support agency. This additional help can cover household essentials, making it easier for you to get back on your feet.
How long will the Household Support Fund be available?
The Household Support Fund has been extended for another year, running from **1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026**. This extension is designed to continue helping households in need during times of financial hardship, ensuring ongoing support for those who qualify.
What other types of support are available through the Household Support Fund?
In addition to direct financial aid, the Household Support Fund supports various initiatives, including free school meals or clothing grants, care leaver support, foster carer assistance, and the Holiday Activity and Food Programme. These funds are aimed at easing the burden on families and individuals in need.
