One-off cash payment worth £145 for thousands to help with rising living costs
THOUSANDS of cash-strapped Britons can claim a one-off payment of £145 to help with rising living costs – but will have to act quickly to get the money into the bank.
The cost of living crisis has taken its toll on all of us, leaving many people to tighten their wallets.
But those on a low income or on certain benefits can receive free financial help from their municipality.
If you live in Windsor and Maidenhead borough, you can get £145 of free cash to cover food and energy costs.
The council has worked with 18 charity partners to decide who needs the help.
Since 2021, they have already served 2,821 residents and distributed 36,350 free school meal vouchers to families through our partnership.
Much of this support is aimed at those who are most struggling, including care leavers, older people and families.
The aid comes through the Household Support Fund, which is worth £842 million.
The money is provided by the government, which has distributed it to councils in England.
They then decide how to divide their share of the fund.
Applicants must also be in “severe financial need” and over 18 years of age.
Councilor Catherine del Campo, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Housing, said: “Our partnership with the community has been vital in ensuring residents have access to a wide range of support for living costs and has already helped so many people assisted.
“We know the cost of living remains high and it is very important that residents continue to reach out for support when they are struggling.
‘The cost of living affects everyone, and people should not feel ashamed about asking for help.
‘There are many people who want to help and you will not be judged regardless of your circumstances.
“The partnership we have created provides a sustainable source of support for residents, providing comprehensive support to residents that goes beyond government assistance.
“You can also make an appointment with our Financial Inclusion Team to ensure you claim everything you’re entitled to, and see our ‘Here to Help’ web pages for more support and advice on living costs around energy and water bills, rental costs, council tax, food, childcare, school meals, benefits and more.”
Meanwhile, Danielle Lane, community development officer at housing association Abri, said: “The collaboration between the council and the various support groups has been exceptional.
“We have all been involved in setting up the process and working together to resolve issues – this has made the process seamless and simple for everyone involved.
“The Cost of Living Partnership is now well established and will continue to look for ways to support each other and residents during the ongoing cost of living crisis.
“Over the past year we have supported more than 200 customers who urgently needed help with heating and family essentials.”
What should I do if my municipality is not on the list?
Although the final phase of this DWP Household Support Fund has now been fully distributed, the cost of living remains high and local partners are committed to working together to help residents access support.
The Government recently announced that the Household Support Fund will be further expanded, but allocations for councils and qualification criteria are yet to be confirmed.
It is best to contact your municipality to see what help is offered and whether you need to take action.
You can do this by using the government’s location tool on its website.
But you may want to act quickly because competition for the fund is fierce and once a municipality uses up its share, there is nothing left.
That said, the Household Support Fund has been extended several times since it was first launched in October 2021, so it could be extended again when the current batch closes, in March 2024.