We are currently unable to accept new applications for the household support fund.
We are processing existing applications and prioritising those who require urgent financial support.
Since May 2023, over 30,000 residents have received help with food, fuel, white goods, and school holiday food support for pupils.
The Government has recently announced an extension of the Household Support Fund, and more details will be shared with local Councils soon.
We will update this webpage when information on how to apply is available.
The scheme
The scheme provides support, such as vouchers, wherever possible, rather than cash grants. Funding is provided by Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to Local Authorities to directly help those who need it the most. Currently, we have been experiencing a large increase in demand from people requiring support provided by the Fund.
Targeted support funding has been allocated to some key areas in the council such as Adult and Children's Social Care, Council Tax and Education. These services will contact residents directly.
The fund will close as soon as the value of the funding provided by the DWP has been allocated.
Who can apply
Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable, in crisis or hardship, and cannot pay for essential items. You do not need to be receiving benefits to get help. If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme.
To be eligible for this fund, you must:
- live in Croydon
- be over 18 years of age
Priority will be given to first time applicants, who are not eligible for other types of help.
How the fund can help
The fund can help your household meet living costs. You can apply on a case-by-case basis for help in the following areas:
Financial assistance
Including:
- top-ups for pre-paid energy and water meters
- assistance with energy and water bills debts
- food vouchers
- housing support (in exceptional circumstances, excluding mortgage payment)
Essential appliances
Including:
- slow cookers
- microwaves
- cookers (gas cookers are only provided in exceptional circumstances)
- fridges
- heaters
You can only use the fund for one household appliance per application.
Items for essential transport
Including:
- travel tickets
- bicycles and helmets
Applications
We are currently unable to accept new applications for the Household Support Fund.
The Enablement Support Team is processing existing applications and prioritising those who require urgent financial support. Since May 2023, over 30,000 residents have received help with food, fuel, white goods, and school holiday food support for pupils.
The UK Government has recently announced an extension of the Household Support Fund, and more details are expected to be shared with local Councils soon.
Once we have further information, we will update this webpage with information on how to apply if you need assistance. Please check for further updates in the next few weeks.