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COST OF LIVING SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR MILLIONS OF FAMILIES 08:56, 03 Jun 2025 Low-income households are being reminded they can apply for free payments to help cover the cost of bills. A new

summer pot of funding has been confirmed as part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), and money could enter bank accounts within days for those who have lodged bids. Residents can apply to

their local councils for cash grants and other support such as food vouchers. READ MORE: PENSIONERS WHO LOST WINTER FUEL PAYMENTS SENT NEW £300 UPDATE GET OUR BEST MONEY SAVING TIPS AND

HACKS BY SIGNING UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER While anyone can apply, those most in need of support will be prioritised. Article continues below This is usually low-income families with children.

People will normally have to show they are struggling to afford basic essentials like food and energy. They may not be able to claim support if they have had a HSF payment over the last 12

months. Schemes operate at different times around the country, so people should check their local council's Household Support Fund pages online for full details. Birmingham City Council

is paying out £200 grants to successful applicants. It is reopening its application process during June. Birmingham Voluntary Services Council, which helps the city council distribute cash,

said in an update: "Please be advised that enquiries will reopen in June 2025. "If you are not currently on the waiting list, and it has now been 12 months since your household

last received a grant payment, you will be able to submit a new enquiry once the scheme reopens in June 2025." The Government says: "You may be able to get help with essential

costs from your local council. "This is sometimes known as the Household Support Fund. "This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills; food;

essential items. "Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays." Article continues below They added: "Funding is aimed at anyone who’s

vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council."