With the cost of living still high, thousands of UK families are set to receive a much-needed helping hand in June 2025 through the Household Support Fund (HSF). This government-backed scheme provides essential aid in the form of vouchers, energy support, and even direct cash payments. While the standard amount in many areas is £90, some councils are offering support packages worth up to £275—depending on your location and household needs.
In this guide, we’ll explain who qualifies, how to apply, and how to make the most of this financial boost.
Overview
The Household Support Fund was created to help families manage the increasing costs of food, energy, and other essentials. It’s distributed by local councils, so what you get (and how you get it) depends on where you live.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Support Amount | Up to £275 (average £90) in cash or vouchers |
| Payment Date | June 2025 (some started earlier) |
| Eligibility | Low-income households, benefits claimants, free school meal families, pensioners |
| Application | Online via local council (some payments are automatic) |
| Program End | March 2026 |
| Extras | Energy top-ups, supermarket vouchers, school holiday help |
Purpose
So why is this payment arriving in June? It comes at a time when families start facing summer break costs—extra food, more childcare, and higher utility bills. Inflation continues to hit essentials hard, and this support is aimed at giving families a financial cushion when they need it most.
ONS data shows food prices have risen nearly 20% since 2022. Utility bills also remain high, despite adjustments to the energy price cap. The £90+ boost from HSF could be the difference between just getting by and falling into arrears.
Eligibility
You may qualify for HSF help in one of several ways:
1. Receiving Means-Tested Benefits
Including:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
2. Low-Income Households Not on Benefits
Even without formal benefits, you might still be eligible if:
- You earn under £25,000 annually
- Your rent or bills eat up most of your income
- You’re facing unexpected financial hardship
3. Families with School Children
If your children qualify for free school meals, you might receive supermarket vouchers automatically—especially during summer holidays.
4. Elderly or Vulnerable Adults
Some councils prioritise older adults (especially 80+), disabled people, and unpaid carers for higher-value support.
Example:
In Cambridgeshire, families receive £15 per child per week during school holidays, plus a lump sum of £110 per household—totaling £275.
SupportTypes
Each council handles things differently, but here are the common types of support:
Supermarket Vouchers
Used at shops like Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Aldi.
Often issued during school breaks.
Energy Bill Grants
Some councils pay your energy provider directly.
Amounts range from £90 to £300 depending on your situation.
Essentials or White Goods
Need a fridge or cooker? Some authorities help with one-off items if you’re in hardship.
Rent and Council Tax Support
This comes in the form of discretionary housing payments or council tax reductions.
Apply
Here’s how to apply for the Household Support Fund this June:
Step 1:
Go to https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
Enter your postcode to access your local council’s page.
Step 2:
Search for “Household Support Fund” or “Cost of Living Help” on their site.
Step 3:
Check the eligibility rules. Some councils auto-issue support if you’re already claiming certain benefits. Others require an application.
Step 4:
If required, complete the form and submit it with:
- Proof of income (payslips or bank statements)
- Benefit letters
- Photo ID or utility bills
Most councils respond within 2–3 weeks.
Tips
Once your support arrives, use it wisely. Experts recommend:
- Pay energy bills first
- Use vouchers to buy non-perishables in bulk
- Save a small portion—£10 or £20 can prevent future borrowing
- Check for more help—Turn2Us, StepChange, and local food banks offer additional support
Councils
Here’s a quick look at what some councils are offering this June:
| Council | Support Offered |
|---|---|
| Wakefield | £195 in supermarket vouchers for families on Council Tax Support |
| Cambridgeshire | Up to £275 for families with children |
| Rotherham | £250 towards energy costs for low-income homes |
| St. Helens | £300 in heating assistance for residents over 80 |
If you’re struggling financially, don’t wait. Take a few minutes to check your local council’s site—you could be just a few clicks away from receiving help.
FAQs
When is the £90 payment arriving?
Most councils distribute the payment in June 2025.
Do I need to apply for HSF support?
Some councils auto-issue, others require applications.
Can pensioners apply for the HSF?
Yes, many councils prioritise elderly residents.
What can I use supermarket vouchers for?
Use them at stores like Tesco, Aldi, and Asda.
Can I receive more than £90?
Yes, some councils offer up to £275 in total support.
