Thousands of households may qualify for £300 in winter energy assistance. Blackpool Council is dispersing this aid via its Household Support Fund to eligible households. Each local authority administers its unique version of the fund, offering various forms of support such as energy assistance, supermarket vouchers, and cash grants.
Eligible households in Blackpool, comprising one or two individuals with children, could receive £200 in energy aid. For households with three or more individuals, including children, the grant increases to £300. To access this support, applicants must demonstrate financial hardship and challenges in paying their bills, submitting recent bank statements for all household members.
Applicants do not need to be receiving Universal Credit or other benefits to apply for this assistance. However, only one award can be claimed within a 12-month period. The payment is sent directly to the energy provider as a credit on the bill or pre-payment meter. Applications can be made through the Blackpool Council website.
Residents outside Blackpool should inquire with their local council about available support through the Household Support Fund. For instance, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is issuing £120 worth of vouchers to qualifying residents. Additionally, City of York Council is distributing one-off £100 payments to households receiving council tax bill assistance.
Portsmouth City Council is granting £150 to single-person households and £200 to couples or families meeting specific income criteria. Eligibility is based on receiving certain benefits and having a household income below specified thresholds. Residents must apply online using the unique reference number provided by the council.
This support initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens for households facing difficulties in meeting their energy expenses during the winter season.