Financial support is a few clicks away for millions of homes in England struggling with the cost of living crisis, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Vulnerable households in England are being encouraged to see what support they might be able to receive locally with the cost of essentials.

Households have received more than 26 million awards from the household support fund since its launch in October 2021, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The fund is there to support people who are vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. People do not necessarily need to be receiving benefits to get help from their council.

People may be able to get help if they are struggling to afford essentials such as energy and water bills, food, toiletries or warm clothes, for example.

There may be variations between councils in terms of eligibility criteria and how to apply. Some councils share out money through local charities and community groups.

People can enter their postcode at gov.uk/find-local-council to find their local authority.

What is the Household Support Fund?

Vulnerable households in England are being encouraged to see what support they might be able to receive locally with the cost of essentials.

Households have received more than 26 million awards from the household support fund since its launch in October 2021, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Money is available for councils in England to help those most in need by drawing from local knowledge and making direct contact with people in the community.

The fund is there to support people who are vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. People do not necessarily need to be receiving benefits to get help from their council.

People may be able to get help if they are struggling to afford essentials such as energy and water bills, food, toiletries or warm clothes, for example.

In March, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt extended the Household Support Fund for a further six months.

He told the Commons: “Next the Household Support Fund. It was set up on a temporary basis and due to conclude at the end of this month.”

Mr Hunt added: “I have decided that – with the battle against inflation still not over – now is not the time to stop the targeted help it offers. We will therefore continue it at current levels for another six months.”