Household Support Fund Extension Brings Crucial Support for Vulnerable Households Through 2026
Extended Support for Cost of Living Crisis
The UK Government has announced a significant extension of the Household Support Fund (HSF), with £742 million being made available to County Councils and Unitary Authorities in England. This crucial funding will cover the period from April 2025 to March 2026.
This extension comes as a relief to struggling Local Authorities across England, as many warned that without it, six in ten local councils would be unable to provide extra welfare support. The extended funding will specifically target support for those struggling with energy, food, and water costs, with particular attention to disabled people who are experiencing the worst effects of the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Implementation and Distribution
The distribution of funds will vary by location, as Local Authorities transition from one round of funding to another. While many councils have existing schemes scheduled to end on March 31, 2025, they will now need to determine how to allocate the newly available money for the 2025-2026 financial year. This could involve adjustments to eligibility criteria, types of support available, or the introduction of new schemes tailored to local needs.
Typical eligibility criteria include parents whose children receive free school meals and are claiming qualifying benefits, individuals receiving Council Tax Support or Housing Benefit. The government has particularly encouraged applications from carers and disabled residents who meet the eligibility criteria and have been affected by increased living costs.
Impact and Future Outlook
While the extension provides immediate relief, there are calls for the Government to develop longer-term solutions to support disabled people and others living in poverty, including proposals for an energy social tariff to support the poorest households.
Households struggling financially are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply as soon as possible, as support is often provided on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s important for residents to stay informed about their Local Authority’s plans, as each council has the freedom to decide how they use their allocated funds, resulting in varying support schemes across different regions.
