UK households hit by April’s rising costs now have some relief. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that new £200 Cost of Living payments will be made available to support low-income and vulnerable families under the Household Support Fund.
These payments are part of a wider effort to help people cope with increases in energy, council tax, water, and other living costs after what many are calling “Awful April”.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government scheme designed to provide financial help to households in need. It covers the cost of essential items like:
- Food
- Energy bills
- Water bills
- Other daily essentials
The new round of funding will support people between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, and will offer payments of around £200 to eligible applicants.
How Much Funding Has Been Announced?
The DWP has allocated a total of £742 million to local councils in England, including County Councils and Unitary Authorities, to be used under the Household Support Fund for the 2025/2026 financial year.
The aim is to support households facing crisis situations, as well as to provide preventative, long-term support for struggling families.
Who Can Apply for the £200 Payment?
To be eligible for the £200 payment:
You must be a UK resident, and
You must be struggling to afford food or energy costs
In Birmingham, for example, applications are managed by the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC).
You can apply here:
www.bvsc.org/hsf
Note: You will not qualify if you already received a £200 payment from the Household Support Fund in the last 12 months.
When Can You Apply?
The application window for the next round of support opens in June 2025.
Funds will be provided until March 31, 2026, or until they run out—so it’s best to apply early if you need help.
What Can the Money Be Used For?
According to the DWP, the Household Support Fund can be used for:
- Food and groceries
- Gas and electricity bills
- Water bills
- Essentials like clothing or hygiene products
- In some cases, housing costs (if existing benefits don’t fully cover them)
Local councils also have the freedom to provide longer-term support that can help households stay out of financial trouble in the future.
If you’re struggling with rising bills, the £200 Household Support Fund payment could provide much-needed relief. With energy costs, council tax, and everyday essentials becoming more expensive, this scheme aims to support those most in need.
Check with your local council or visit the official application link to find out if you qualify. Don’t delay – funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
FAQ’s
What is the Household Support Fund 2025?
It is a government fund managed by the DWP, offering £742 million in support to low-income UK households for food, energy, and other essentials.
How much can I get from the Household Support Fund?
Eligible applicants can receive around £200. In some areas, this may vary slightly depending on local council rules.
When can I apply for the £200 Cost of Living payment?
Applications open in June 2025 and remain available until March 31, 2026, or until funds are used up.
Can I apply again if I received the £200 last year?
No. If you received a £200 payment from the fund in the past 12 months, you are not eligible again in this round.
Where can I apply for the Household Support Fund in Birmingham?
Residents in Birmingham can apply through the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council website: www.bvsc.org/hsf
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Ok
Does that include pensioners
Yes
Where can I apply for the cost of living payment in prudhoe Northumberland
Here: https://www.prudhoetowncouncil.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support/