Some help from the Household Support Fund is available both to residents in private rented accommodation and in Council housing. This is usually in the form of small scale help with other immediate costs that are affecting your ability to pay your rent and avoid eviction (for example fuel vouchers).
However, residents cannot apply for this directly. To be eligible for help, a professional must make a referral on your behalf. For private renters this will usually be Citizens Advice (CA), because you have approached them with your overall situation. For Council tenants this will usually be your Tenancy Officer as they will be able to discuss your needs more widely.
Department for Work and Pensions
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may be able to provide financial help depending on your circumstances. They offer budgeting loans, short term benefit advances and hardship payments.
Access DWP for further information
If you would like to know how much benefit you may be able to receive or help with budgeting, visit our benefit calculator and budgeting tools.
Discretionary Support Fund - Under 25 £100 Payment
In response to the impact of the cost of living the Government has extended the funding of Discretionary Support Fund for the Council to distribute to help low-income households with essential food and fuel before the end of November 2022.
The Council has determined that under 25-year-olds in receipt of Housing or Council Tax Benefits have been impacted hardest are eligible for a £100 payment from the Discretionary Support Fund. This £100 payment will be made using Paypoint Cashout Vouchers.
A letter with a £100 Paypoint Cashout Voucher can be redeem for cash at any Paypoint store, with proof of identity.
Paypoint Cashout Vouchers Arrangements
- 1 x £100 Paypoint Cashout Vouchers can be redeemed for cash at any Paypoint store with proof of ID
- proof of ID identity must show both your name and address, for example: Council Tax or Utility bill, bank statement or driving licence.
- a list of all Paypoint stores can be found on the website for Paypoint.
- paypoint can be contact on 0330 400 0002 if customer has any difficulties redeeming vouchers in store
- only if vouchers have been lost, stolen, or expired should customer contact the Council on 300 300 to request replacement vouchers.
