Many households in the UK are finding it challenging to manage rising food and energy costs. To offer relief, Sunderland City Council has announced extra support for low-income families through the Household Support Fund (HSF), provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Eligible households can apply to receive £200 vouchers towards essential expenses such as food and energy bills. This guide explains how the support works, who can apply, and the necessary conditions for eligibility.
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)?
The Household Support Fund is a scheme launched by the DWP to help families who struggle financially due to the increasing cost of living. Sunderland City Council has received the latest round of this funding, known as HSF6, which will be distributed to those most in need from September 2024 to March 2025. It is important to note that households can generally receive only one award during this period.
Who Can Apply for the £200 Vouchers?
To apply for these vouchers, you need to meet specific criteria outlined by the Sunderland City Council. Here’s a simplified explanation of the eligibility requirements:
Eligibility for General Households
Your household can apply if your annual gross income is:
- Less than £33,000 for a single person
- Less than £49,500 for a couple
Additionally, you must have savings below £750 and meet at least one of these conditions:
- You are an unpaid carer (either receiving Carers Allowance, having an entitlement to it, or having a carer’s premium).
- Your household spends 10% or more of its net income on fuel bills (considered fuel poverty).
- You receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support (but not through passported benefits).
- You have considerable existing debts or debt repayments.
Eligibility for Pensioner Households
Pensioner households not receiving means-tested benefits from the DWP or HMRC Tax Credits need to fulfil additional conditions:
- Annual net income below £16,150 (single person) or £31,650 (couple)
- Savings less than £1,500
- Also, you must satisfy one of the following:
- You are an unpaid carer.
- You are in fuel poverty.
- You receive Housing Benefit/Council Tax Support awarded after 4 November 2024.
Pensioners receiving Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support but not receiving Pension Credit as of 4 November 2024 would already have received their full Winter Fuel Payment from the council as a one-time payment between November and December 2024.
When and How Can You Apply?
Applications must be submitted during the period between September 2024 and March 2025. Sunderland City Council clearly states that applications made outside this time will not be accepted or considered. The council will provide updates periodically as the funding and application process become available.
To avoid missing out, check regularly for updates from Sunderland City Council’s official website, or directly contact them for guidance on application dates and procedures.
The Household Support Fund initiative by Sunderland City Council and DWP aims to provide much-needed financial relief to vulnerable and low-income households struggling with food and energy costs. It is crucial to carefully review the eligibility criteria and apply within the specified time frame to access this financial help. Keep informed by regularly checking official updates, and don’t hesitate to contact the council directly for any clarification. Remember, the support is limited to one voucher per household, so ensure you make your application timely and accurately.
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FAQ’s
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a financial assistance program provided by the UK government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help low-income households cover essential living costs such as food and energy bills.
Who is eligible for the £200 cost of living voucher from Sunderland City Council?
Eligible applicants must earn less than £33,000 annually for a single person or less than £49,500 for couples, have savings below £750, and either be unpaid carers, be in fuel poverty, receive Housing Benefit/Council Tax Support, or have significant debt repayments.
When can I apply for the Household Support Fund voucher in Sunderland?
Applications for the Household Support Fund voucher must be submitted between September 2024 and March 2025. Applications made outside this period will not be accepted.
Can pensioner households apply for this £200 voucher scheme?
Yes, pensioner households can apply provided they have an annual net income under £16,150 (single) or £31,650 (couple), savings below £1,500, and meet additional criteria such as being unpaid carers, in fuel poverty, or recently awarded Housing Benefit/Council Tax Support.
How many times can a household receive support under this scheme?
Under the current guidelines, each eligible household is typically allowed to receive support just once during the funding period (September 2024 to March 2025).
