£200 cost of living payments for households not on DWP benefits

Households who do not receive DWP benefits have been told they may be able to get special cost of living payments this winter. Money will be paid out to support some of the most vulnerable households during the cold winter months and help them pay their bills.

These include people struggling to afford basic essentials like food, gas and electricity. Many of these people are likely to be receiving some form of benefits.

But, crucially, the Government has stated people do not need to be receiving benefits in order to qualify for support, as long as they can show they are struggling to manage day to day. It said funding was "aimed at anyone who's vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials". Households can apply to their local councils for extra support.

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Cash is being paid out by local authorities through the Household Support Fund (HSF). This emergency pot of money is being used to support those struggling to most during winter.

Those struggling to afford essentials are being urged to apply and see if they can get help. Councils are paying out different amounts across the country and birmingham-city-council>Birmingham City Council has confirmed it is issuing £200 grants to those who meet the criteria.

The Government says: "You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’. This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like:

• energy and water bills
• food
• essential items

"Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays. Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council."