Council support for struggling households

Ahead of Government financial support ending in September 2024 for households battling the cost of living crisis, residents are urged to claim all they are eligible for and see where they can get discounts and lower their bills.

The reduced Household Support Funding for York of £1,037,906 is available until 30 September, and will provide a variety of financial assistance to help people meet essential expenses.

The Council is supporting households to prepare for this support ending and to get themselves in the best possible financial position. This can be done by claiming all the benefits and support they’re entitled to - £23 billion of benefits go unclaimed each year across the UK - while also minimising spending by taking up all available discounts and reduced tariffs.

This last Household Support Funding money will be used as part of holistic support with finances. Eligible residents will be allocated one food and one fuel voucher during the financial year. The vouchers’ value will depend on the size and level of need of the household.

As fewer vouchers will be available and to support families during the summer holiday, additional support will be made to community food sources such as food banks.

Additional support for people struggling to heat their homes will be funded via York Energy Advice which can provide advice and energy efficiency measures.

The funding will also award working-age people who get Council Tax Support, an additional contribution to their bill. This will be paid automatically over the summer.

Anyone not eligible for Council Tax Support but who is struggling financially, can apply for discretionary support with cost of living pressures until 30 September 2024. This can be done easily online when evidence to support applications can be submitted.

Councillor Anna Baxter, Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion at City of York Council, said:

“Household Support Funding is decreasing across the country. We’re spending York’s where it will make the most impact with those most in need.

“This reduction in our overall funding means it’s more important than ever to maximise your income and make sure you’re claiming all you’re entitled to.  

“All benefits are under claimed so, first and foremost, I’d urge everyone to use our free and anonymous benefits checker to see if you should be claiming extra income.

“£23 billion of Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance and Universal Credit go unclaimed each year across the UK, so please claim what you’re entitled to.”

Find out what you’re entitled to at www.york.gov.uk/Benefits and claim, see how to reduce your outgoings and get help if you need it.