Households urged to act as free DWP payments start on Tuesday

The £421million fund is designed to help vulnerable families with essential costs such as food, energy bills, and other necessities, and will run until March 31, 2025.

Local councils will distribute the funds and are tasked with deciding how to allocate the money based on the needs of their communities, BirminghamLive reported.

This will be the latest round of funding, bringing the total to £3.5 billion since the scheme was launched by the Conservative government in October 2021.

People are being encouraged to visit their council’s website or contact local offices to check how much support is available and how to apply.

A DWP spokesperson stressed the importance of making use of the available funds in good time, saying: “Funds should be spent or committed before March 31, 2025, and cannot be carried over for future use. Authorities must ensure that vouchers distributed are redeemed before the end of the scheme, or shortly thereafter.”

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The fund plays a crucial role in supporting households most in need of help with essential living costs, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Local authorities are expected to create plans to ensure the funding reaches those who need it most, throughout the fund’s duration.

The news comes after it was revealed that the DWP is also increasing the Winter Fuel Payment for some pensioners.

This support is aimed at helping older residents manage their heating costs over the winter months.

Pensioners born before September 23, 1958, who meet certain criteria, will be eligible for payments between £100 and £300, depending on their circumstances.

These payments will be automatically processed for most people, but those receiving Universal Credit or other qualifying benefits will be notified via their online journal on how to claim.

The deadline for Winter Fuel Payment claims is March 31, 2025, providing extra support alongside the Household Support Fund.

Households are strongly encouraged to act quickly to take advantage of both schemes and to contact their local councils for further information.

More details about eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment can be found HERE.

More details about eligibility for the Household Support Fund can be found HERE.