The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on what cost of living payments are available for households. The announcement puts an end to speculation about additional support payments similar to those issued between 2022 and 2024.
The DWP officially confirmed no further cost of living payments will be introduced under the Labour Government. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on what cost of living payments are available for households.
The announcement puts an end to speculation about additional support payments similar to those issued between 2022 and 2024. The DWP officially confirmed no further cost of living payments will be introduced under the Labour Government.
Between 2022 and 2024, low-income households received a series of one-off payments worth £326, £324, £301, £300 and £299 to help with soaring energy bills and record inflation.
Disabled households received two payments worth £150, while pensioner households were entitled to payments of either £150 or £300 on top of Winter Fuel Payments. Despite online rumours, the DWP stated clearly: “DWP is not planning to make any more Cost of Living Payments.”
However, struggling households can still access financial support through the Government-funded Household Support Fund (HSF) scheme.
Cost of Living with Updated Criteria
First launched in 2021, the HSF has been extended by the Labour Government until March 2026 with an additional £742 million of funding. The scheme provides local councils with money to support vulnerable residents in their areas.
Each council determines how to distribute this support, which can range from direct cash payments to supermarket vouchers. Help available varies by location, creating what some describe as a postcode lottery for assistance.
Councils typically detail available support and eligibility criteria on their websites, often under dedicated cost of living sections.
Application processes differ between councils, with some accepting online applications while others require telephone applications. Some councils proactively contact eligible residents directly.
300 Cost of Living Payment May 2025
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Pool Council (BCP) is among the local authorities offering substantial support through the HSF. The council is providing financial aid worth up to £300 to households unable to meet basic costs.
This represents the seventh round of HSF grants for the region, funded by the DWP. Eligible families can receive household grants for essential bills and food support.
The scheme offers grant vouchers worth £150 to qualifying residents in two separate rounds over the funding period. Applications must be submitted during specific windows throughout the year.
The initiative aims to provide low-income households with vital short-term financial support while also offering practical advice on money management and energy efficiency.
BCP Council’s HSF also provides a school holiday food voucher scheme for families with children. Eligible families could receive £15 for every child during the May half-term holidays.
The fund supports heat-saving upgrades including loft or cavity wall insulation and other energy-saving measures to reduce bills.
Households in Medway struggling to meet the cost of living can claim a share of £4million. The money is shared out to local authorities to allocate, with Medway having £3,987,524 for the coming financial year.
Torbay Council has reopened their Household Support Fund scheme for residents living in the area and is giving away one-off payments of £100. This free payment can be used towards fuel, water, or food costs.
However, not everyone is eligible for the help. Households living in Torbay can receive it if they claim the following DWP benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
While the DWP has ended its direct cost of living payments, the extended HSF ensures vulnerable households can still access vital support until spring 2026.
Residents should check their local council websites for specific eligibility criteria and application windows. Each council will also have a different application process for the scheme.
FAQs
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government scheme designed to help low-income and vulnerable households with essential costs, such as food, heating, and bills. It is distributed through local councils and offers support in the form of grants, vouchers, and other financial assistance.
How do I apply for the Household Support Fund?
You can apply for the Household Support Fund through your local council. Each council has its own application process, which could include online or telephone applications. Some councils may also contact eligible households directly.
Is the Household Support Fund available to everyone?
No, the Household Support Fund is only available to households that meet specific eligibility criteria. This typically includes low-income families, pensioners, and other vulnerable groups. Check your local council’s website for more information on the exact requirements.
How much financial support can I receive from the Household Support Fund?
The amount of support varies by location and council. For example, some areas may offer grants of up to £300, while others provide vouchers for food or help with energy bills. Be sure to check your local council’s website for specific details.
Can I still get help if the government has stopped the cost of living payments?
Yes, while the government has ended direct cost of living payments, you can still access support through the Household Support Fund. This scheme is designed to help vulnerable households with everyday expenses until at least 2026.
You promise payments every day the problem is what you say is a lie you never deliver you full of bullshit you don’t have the money you tricking the people we are as not as stupid you are tissue paper go home labour party not worthy of the people. Nothing ever happens,
James mullins
When is this available as need this asap is this real or fake
It is real Sean
I have looked on the DWP website and there is no mention of what you say, so where do you get your information from.
Kind Regards
Bert
Hello Bert,
We got info from here: https://www.gbnews.com/money/dwp-cost-of-living-payments-2025-household-support-fund
Stop putting bloody refugees in posh hotels and worry about the British people who pay your wages, labour you are a joke.
When exactly is this being paid. Like every other person im struggling so need a date. My bills need paying and not enough to go around.
Let’s hope you deliver what your saying ..
Lies lies lies
Our British people need the help not letting refugees in giving them
Our hard earned money we pay taxes on
We come first ……we are the priority…..
The old and vorable and the families that need the help
Hello Maxine Rawles,
Please check this blog: https://www.gbnews.com/money/dwp-cost-of-living-payments-2025-household-support-fund
I think it’s really bad that you keep putting these payments up getting people to believe that are going to get extra help when it’s not true it’s mind blowing
Hello Kerry,
Please check this blog: https://www.gbnews.com/money/dwp-cost-of-living-payments-2025-household-support-fund