As the UK continues to grapple with rising household expenses, struggling families and individuals now have a chance to claim a £200 summer cost of living payment without the need to be on benefits.
Thanks to the Household Support Fund (HSF), local councils are offering targeted financial relief to people who need help covering essential costs during the summer months.
What makes this initiative significant is that you do not need to be claiming benefits to apply. Local authorities have been given discretion to assess cases individually, ensuring that help reaches not just benefit claimants but also low-income earners and others under financial stress.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government-backed scheme administered by local councils. It’s aimed at providing emergency assistance to households facing hardship due to increased living costs.
The fund helps cover basic essentials, such as:
- Food
- Energy and water bills
- Essential household items
- School holiday food support for children
Councils like Birmingham City Council are currently offering £200 grants through this scheme, while other councils may offer more or less, depending on their allocation and guidelines.
Who Is Eligible?
One of the most appealing aspects of this support is that you don’t need to be on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or any other benefit to qualify.
Eligibility is based on need, not status.
Typical Eligibility Criteria:
- You are struggling to afford food, energy, or other essential bills
- You live in the UK and your local council has an open HSF scheme
- You have not received HSF support in the last 12 months
- Your household income is low or your circumstances have recently changed (e.g., job loss, rising bills)
Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, meaning councils have discretion to help where they see a genuine need.
Types of Support Available
In addition to the £200 payment, some councils offer alternative or supplementary support depending on the applicant’s needs.
Support Available Through HSF (Example Overview)
| Support Type | Details |
|---|---|
| £200 Payment | One-off cash grant (e.g., Birmingham City Council) |
| Food Vouchers | Provided during school holidays or on application |
| Utility Bill Support | Help with electricity, gas, and water payments |
| Essential Items | White goods, clothing, or bedding for families in urgent need |
| Fuel Vouchers | Prepaid vouchers for heating or cooking fuel (where applicable) |
The availability of each type of support varies by local authority, so applicants should check their council’s website for exact guidelines and open application periods.
How to Apply
Applying for the Household Support Fund is typically done online through your local council’s official website. Each authority may have a different application process, but the general steps include:
- Visit your local council’s Household Support Fund page
- Complete the online form or download an application form
- Provide evidence of income and expenses (such as payslips, bills, or bank statements)
- Submit your application and wait for a decision (usually within 2–4 weeks)
Important: Some councils may close applications early if funds run out, so it’s advised to apply as soon as possible.
Why This Matters in Summer 2025
As of June 24, 2025, the cost of living remains a pressing issue across the UK. With energy bills, grocery costs, and housing expenses all rising, families who aren’t on benefits but are still struggling to make ends meet often fall through the cracks of mainstream support.
The Household Support Fund fills that gap by offering targeted relief during times of peak demand—such as summer holidays, when children are home and school meals are unavailable.
Whether you’re a single working parent, someone recently unemployed, or a pensioner not eligible for Pension Credit, this £200 payment could be the help you need this summer.
The £200 summer cost of living payment under the Household Support Fund is a timely relief measure available even if you’re not claiming benefits.
With councils judging applications individually, struggling households across the UK have an opportunity to access help. Apply early through your local authority before funds run out.
FAQs
Do I need to be claiming benefits to get the £200 payment?
No. The Household Support Fund is open to all struggling households, even if you’re not receiving any government benefits.
Can I apply again if I already received support in the last 12 months?
In most cases, no. If you’ve received HSF support in the past year, you may be ineligible for another grant.
How do I know what my council is offering?
Visit your local council’s website and check the Household Support Fund section for eligibility, payment amounts, and application procedures.