What is the Household support fund?

The Household support fund was launched in 2021 by the Department for Work and Pensions. It set aside £500m in support for vulnerable households over the winter. In 2022 this fund was doubled to £1 billion to support families with the cost of living. This fund has been divided between each county using the Barnett formula, which is the usual way to apply for additional funding in England for each county. The Household support fund is designed to help ease financial pressures on residents with low incomes. It is short-term financial support to help with food, fuel bills, and other related essentials.

Who is the fund for?

One-third of the funding has been ring-fenced to support families with children, with another third dedicated to pensions. Using the knowledge of the Local Authorities, they will determine how best to use the remainder of the fund within the scope set up by ministers. As an example, previous funding has supported households with food, clothing, energy and water costs, and this extension will ensure that this support continues through to the autumn.

Guildford Borough Council (GBC) is receiving applications and has stated that “This support fund is aimed at those who are struggling with their food shopping and energy bills. This funding is for families, peopled living alone and pensioners“. You can submit one application per household. A grant of up to £300 per household is available. GBC has also confirmed that applications for Mortgage support will not be awarded.

How do I apply?

If you would like to apply for this fund or know of a household that may benefit from this, please complete the application form and send it to the Community Wellbeing Team at community.wellbeing@guildford.gov.uk. Applications can be made by the applicant or someone acting on their behalf. The scheme runs until 30 September 2022 or until all funds have been allocated.

Household support fund application form (Word doc) [59KB]

Residents may also call 01483 458055 if they require assistance completing the form.

https://www.guildford.gov.uk/article/26087/How-do-I-apply

Application process

Guildford Borough Council will process your application and make a decision based on the information provided in the application form and any other information available to the council. Once a decision has been reached, the applicant will receive a written notice advising:

• whether an award has been made
• the reason for the decision
• the intended use of the award
• the amount of the award

If successful, they will make a payment directly to your bank account as quickly as possible to meet the agreed needs of the household. Guildford Borough Council has also advised that it may not always be possible to provide the full amount of funding required due to the limited funds they have available. This scheme is discretionary and there are no rights to appeal, however, the application may ask for the case to be looked at again if contacted within five days of the decision.