As the cost of living crisis continues to affect families across the UK, new financial relief is now available for eligible households. Through the Household Support Fund (HSF), local councils are distributing vouchers worth up to £500 to help residents manage rising costs of food, energy bills, and school-related expenses.
This article breaks down who qualifies, how much you can get, which councils are offering what, and how to apply before the deadlines. Let’s explore everything you need to know to see if your family can benefit.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government-backed initiative that allocates funding to local councils across England. The aim is to support low-income households with essential living costs, especially during seasonal pressures like summer holidays and school terms.
Each council determines its own eligibility rules, payment methods, and distribution process—ranging from direct bank payments to supermarket or energy vouchers.
Who Can Get the £500 Household Voucher?
Not every family will receive the full £500. The amount depends on your household size, income, and previous claims.
For example, Ribble Valley Borough Council in Lancashire is issuing the following amounts to qualifying households earning less than £35,000 per year:
| Household Type | Voucher Amount |
|---|---|
| Single Adult Household | £200 |
| Two or More Adults | £300 |
| Households with Children | £500 |
The application deadline for Ribble Valley’s scheme is 11 July 2025, or earlier if funds run out. You cannot apply if you received a voucher between October 2024 and March 2025.
Examples of Council Support Across the UK
Support from the Household Support Fund varies widely depending on your location. Here are some examples of how different councils are helping families:
| Council | Support Offered |
|---|---|
| Ribble Valley | £200–£500 food vouchers for households earning under £35,000 |
| Doncaster | £100–£300 payments for households receiving Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, and Child Benefit (depending on number of children) |
| Hull | £200 for pensioner households; £40 for school uniform support; holiday food vouchers for children receiving free school meals |
| Hartlepool | £100 vouchers for families with children (age 2–19) on free school meals; £100 for pensioner households on Council Tax support |
Tip: Visit your local council website to check if a similar scheme is available in your area. Funding, amounts, and criteria will vary.
How to Apply for the £500 Household Support Voucher
Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit your council’s website (e.g., ribblevalley.gov.uk)
- Look for a section labeled “Household Support Fund” or “Cost of Living Support”
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload proof of income (payslips, benefit letters, etc.)
- Submit and wait for approval—payments are typically made via voucher or bank transfer
Remember: Deadlines apply, and some councils may close applications early if funding runs out.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
While each council has different rules, here’s a general guide to common eligibility requirements:
- Total household income under £35,000
- At least one dependent child receiving Child Benefit
- Receiving one or more benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Free School Meals
Some councils also prioritize:
- Pensioner households receiving Council Tax Support
- Families with disabled dependents
- Single-parent households
What Can the Vouchers Be Used For?
Most vouchers issued under the scheme are for essential expenses, including:
- Groceries (Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, etc.)
- Gas or electricity bills
- School uniforms and supplies
- Basic household items (toiletries, cleaning products)
Councils may also offer direct cash payments to bank accounts in lieu of vouchers.
Additional Support Options
If you don’t qualify for the £500 voucher or live outside the eligible councils, there are other types of assistance that may be available:
- Food banks and pantries for urgent needs
- Warm Home Discount and Fuel Vouchers for energy support
- Free School Meals and Holiday Activity Vouchers
- Council Tax Reductions or hardship grants
You should contact your local council or Citizen’s Advice for tailored help.
The £500 Household Support Voucher offers timely help for families under financial strain. Whether you’re struggling with food costs, school expenses, or rising utility bills, this council-backed scheme could offer the relief you need. But act quickly—applications close soon, and funds are limited.
Check your local council website today, see if you qualify, and submit your application before the deadline passes.
FAQs
Can I get the £500 voucher if I already received one earlier this year?
No. In most cases, if you received a voucher between October 2024 and March 2025, you’re not eligible for another until after October 2025.
What happens if the funding runs out before I apply?
Once the council’s allocation is exhausted, applications will close—so it’s important to apply early.
How will I receive the payment?
Most councils offer the support as supermarket vouchers or direct deposits into your bank account, depending on your situation and preferences.