What you need to know about the Household Support Fund in 2025

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00:00Hello, I'm Alex Nelson, Jobs and Finance Specialist, here to explain the Household Support Fund,

00:06a crucial government initiative aimed at helping households with essential living costs like food, clothing and utility bills.

00:13The fund was introduced to support vulnerable individuals and families facing financial hardship,

00:18especially due to the ongoing cost of living crisis.

00:21The government distributes the fund to local councils across England, who then allocate the money based on local needs.

00:28Each council sets its own eligibility criteria and decides how support is offered,

00:33whether that's through direct cash payments, vouchers or grants for specific expenses.

00:38Now, if you're in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, there are similar schemes.

00:43In Scotland, it's through the Scottish Welfare Fund and Discretionary Housing Payments.

00:48In Wales, the Discretionary Assistance Fund, or DAF, helps,

00:52while in Northern Ireland you can access support through Discretionary Support Payments.

00:56So, how can you apply for help? It's simple.

00:59Visit your local council or authority's website and search for the Household Support Fund.

01:04There you'll find eligibility criteria, application details and more.

01:08If your council is offering support, applications are usually made online,

01:12where you'll need to provide details about your income, savings and household situation.

01:17But don't wait. The scheme is currently scheduled to end on the 31st of March 2025,

01:22and any unspent funds must be returned to the government.

01:25Councils can take up to four weeks to process applications,

01:28so I recommend submitting your claim before March 1st, to make sure you get the support you need.

01:33If your area does have a scheme, apply soon and ensure you're getting the financial assistance you're entitled to.

01:39Thanks for watching.