Thousands of households are potentially eligible for £300 in energy assistance this winter. Blackpool Council is providing this support through its Household Support Fund to qualifying households. Different local authorities offer variations of the fund, including energy support, supermarket vouchers, and cash grants.
Eligible households of one or two individuals, including children, can receive £200 in energy aid, while households with three or more people, including children, may qualify for £300. To access the assistance, individuals must demonstrate financial hardship and difficulties in paying their bills, along with providing recent bank statements for all household members.
Applicants do not need to receive Universal Credit or other benefits to apply for the fund, but they can only receive one award within a 12-month period. The aid is directly credited to the energy provider, appearing on the bill or pre-payment gas or electric meter. Interested parties can apply through the Blackpool Council website.
Residents outside Blackpool should explore their local council’s support options through the Household Support Fund. For instance, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is issuing £120 worth of vouchers to eligible residents. City of York Council is distributing one-time £100 payments to individuals receiving council tax bill assistance. Portsmouth City Council is awarding £150 to single-person households and £200 to couples or families meeting specific income criteria.
Nearly 5,000 York residents are eligible for the payment, with the council sending out letters containing application details. Portsmouth City Council’s criteria include receiving certain benefits and maintaining household income below specified levels. It’s crucial for households to meet the income requirements for eligibility.