Cost of Living Support
Government’s Household Support Fund extended to 31 March 2025.
Following the government’s announcement to extend the Household Support Fund for the period 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, the Council has consulted with local organisations about how best to help people in Cheshire West and Chester. The Council’s plan, which has now been approved, sets out how the money will be spent, as detailed below.
Pensioners on a low income who are claiming Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction but are not receiving Pension Credit and therefore no longer qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment support, will receive £200.
- Families with children who get free school meals will receive food vouchers worth £17.50 per week for each of the four weeks of school holidays.
- Payments of £50 will be made to Carers who provide 35 hours care per week and whose details are held within our Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction records.
- Payments of £100 will be made to Care Leavers under the age of 25 and still resident in our area.
- Financial support will be available to residents via local charitable organisations.
- Low income households can apply for help with energy and food costs.
Whilst the Council’s plan has been approved, the application processes are still being developed and therefore are currently unavailable. Our website will be updated once applications are available.