As living costs keep rising, many families are struggling to make ends meet. In response to this, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has introduced a fresh round of support to help low-income households. This help is part of the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF), supported by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The aim of this scheme is to give short-term financial help to families facing tough times. The support will continue until March 31, 2026, offering both financial aid and expert advice to help families stretch their income further.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government-backed programme that helps councils across the UK support people who are struggling with money. The BCP Council is now running the seventh round of this fund.
Local community and voluntary groups will work with the council to provide this support. Families in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole may receive financial help to pay for basic needs like food, electricity, and gas bills.
How Much Can You Get?
If your application is approved, you may get £150 in vouchers during two separate periods. This means that your household could receive up to £300 during the entire funding phase.
These vouchers are not loans and do not need to be paid back. They are given to help families who really need financial help right now.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Household Support Fund in the BCP area, you must:
- Live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole
- Be 16 years or older and not living with your parents or carers
- Be struggling to afford basic needs like food and bills
- Be able to show proof of ID, your address, and your household income (this could include bank statements and documents showing who in your home is working or studying)
When and Where to Apply?
Although the current application window is closed, a new one will open from 9am on Monday, May 12 and stay open until 4:30pm on Friday, July 4.
During this time, applications can be made through the local Citizens Advice Bureau. You can visit their website for full details and to apply online.
Why This Scheme Matters
Council leader Millie Earl said, “I’m pleased the HSF has been extended for a seventh round to support people with the cost of living.” She added that the fund offers not just money, but useful advice to help people make better financial decisions.
This support can make a big difference for families who are finding it hard to cope. Getting help with essentials like food and energy bills can free up money for other important needs like children’s school supplies or transport.
The Household Support Fund by BCP Council is a helpful scheme for families with low income who are affected by rising costs. With up to £300 in vouchers and expert advice available, this support can reduce stress and give families some relief in these challenging times. Make sure you’re ready to apply when the next window opens.
News Source: https://www.nationalworld.com/money/dwp-cost-of-living-payments-300-support-household-support-fund-5120225
FAQ
Who can apply for the BCP Household Support Fund?
Residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole who are over 16 years old, living independently and unable to afford essentials like food and bills can apply.
How much financial help can I get from the BCP support scheme?
Eligible households may receive two rounds of £150 vouchers, totalling up to £300 during the funding period.
When is the next application window for the Household Support Fund?
The next application period will run from 9am on Monday, May 12 to 4:30pm on Friday, July 4 via the local Citizens Advice Bureau.
What documents do I need to apply?
You may need to show proof of ID, address, household income details, and a bank statement to confirm financial need.
Do I have to repay the money or vouchers I receive?
No, the vouchers are provided as a form of support and do not need to be repaid.
I think all households in UK should get cost of living payment as oap in all areas are struggling with increased cost of fuel to eat and keep warm.as well as rent to keep a roof above head . I.live in peterborough. UK.
Totally agreed Joan willbye
Keep your money
Give it to the immigrants. As you Give them everything else. What about the people who stay here and worked for the country 🤔
You are not for the people of this country 😒
These are all lies £299 cost of living was on Google l know family members who spent they last penny because they thought they was getting cost of living in may but now are skint or in debt until the next payment
How to get it then it’s not saying
Hello David Alan eric Ross,
You can apply here: https://citizensadvicebcp.org.uk/projects/household-support-fund/
How can they stop immigration when they getting rehoused and entitled to make a claim when it’s not the cost ov living wha bothers me, it’s the people who can charge wha they want,I’m disabled and pay me own rent and bills and no help off the government,I’m ashamed to be British,bring back Rishi and starmer get gone 🙏
There’s only reason the country in such a mess. There’s two many people here. Why are there so many men here? Shouldn’t they be fighting for their country? They come here and commit crimes and they still remain here, send them back. They haven’t got anything good to offer. They use our NHS without ever pulling money in welfare services . I am sick to death of hearing how much it costing us. If we are not careful we will end up becoming a 3rd world country have worked since the age of 14. No I have a health condition, brought on by COVID, which does not allow me to work anymore but I cannot get any help. SHAME on you Governments Leaders for allowing this to happen to our country.