Answers · UK 2025/26
What is the Household Support Fund and who qualifies in 2026?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government grant given to local councils in England to distribute to vulnerable households struggling with living costs -- food, energy, and essential items. Eligibility and the value of support vary by local authority. The fund has been extended multiple times since 2021 and qualifying criteria typically focus on low income, benefit claimants, and families with children.
Full answer
The Household Support Fund (HSF) was introduced in October 2021 to help vulnerable households in England with the cost of essentials such as food, energy, and water bills. It is funded centrally by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) but administered locally by county councils and unitary authorities. **Key facts** - England only (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have separate schemes) - Administered by your local council -- criteria and available support differ by area - Not a universal benefit -- targeted at those most in need - Grants are typically one-off payments or vouchers, not regular income - The fund has been extended repeatedly: it ran from October 2021 through to at least March 2026, with further extensions subject to government decisions **Who typically qualifies?** Each council sets its own eligibility criteria, but common qualifying groups include: - Households on means-tested benefits (Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Pension Credit) - Low-income families with children - Pensioners on low incomes not receiving Pension Credit - People with disabilities on low incomes - Households in fuel or food poverty - Those facing unexpected financial crises **What can you receive?** Types of support offered by councils include: - Supermarket food vouchers (typically £50--£250) - Energy bill vouchers or direct payments to suppliers - White goods or furniture for those setting up homes - School uniform grants - Help with essential household items **Worked example** A family on Universal Credit with two children in Manchester contacts their local council. Under that council's HSF scheme they receive a £200 supermarket voucher for food costs and a £100 energy voucher -- a total of £300 of support, completely free and not repayable. **How to apply** 1. Find your local council at gov.uk/find-local-council 2. Search your council's website for "Household Support Fund" 3. Each council has its own application process -- some are online, some by phone 4. Evidence of income or benefit status is usually required **Important**: because eligibility and available payments vary so much between councils, always check directly with your own local authority for current qualifying criteria and how to apply.
More answers
This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.