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.
Household support fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Pension Credit
If you’re of pension age on a low income of less than £218.15 per week for a single person, or £332.95 as a couple, you may be eligible to claim additional support through Pension Credit. This will provide you with an additional weekly income as well as access to additional benefits such as a free tv licence, help with NHS costs, cold weather payments and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

If you feel you may qualify, please make further enquiries regarding this valuable support you could receive. The Pension Service have a helpline
T: 0800 99 1234 and can provide further advice to you.

Warm Home Discount scheme
Applications to the Warm Home Discount scheme for permanent residents living in a park home who pay for their electricity directly to the park site owner, is now open. Funding is limited and applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis.

For more information, visit:
Park Homes | Warm Home Discount Scheme | Charis (charisgrants.com)

Additional advice and support
If you’re currently struggling, please visit the Council’s website where there is lots of information and support available to help you.

Cost of living | Cheshire West and Chester Council -

Other benefits and grants

HELP scheme