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Household Support Fund update

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The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households most in need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items. The current round provides funding until 31 March 2026.
Cheshire West and Chester plan to spend the money in the following ways:

food vouchers for families with children who get free school meals

payments to Pensioners who receive Pension Credit

payments to Pensioners on a low income who are not receiving Pension Credit and therefore no longer qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment support

making financial support available to people via local charitable organisations

Continue reading
The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households most in need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items. The current round provides funding until 31 March 2026.
Cheshire West and Chester plan to spend the money in the following ways:

food vouchers for families with children who get free school meals

payments to Pensioners who receive Pension Credit

payments to Pensioners on a low income who are not receiving Pension Credit and therefore no longer qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment support

making financial support available to people via local charitable organisations

helping low-income households with energy and food costs

income maximisation software to support residents to claim all of their eligible entitlements.

The round of discretionary funding for 2025/26 is now open for applications and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people. The discretionary scheme is only open to households which have an active claim for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction.

More information including how to apply can be found using the link below.
https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/household-support-fund

As of early July, we have now contacted all eligible Pension Credit customers directly to advise how to claim this payment.

The Council had previously intended to issue payments to pensioners on a low income who are not receiving Pension Credit to replace lost Winter Fuel Payment support. However, following amendments to the Winter Fuel Payment by central government, this support is no longer required.
Therefore, in the autumn, we will be directly contacting all eligible low-income pensioners who are receiving Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction, to advise how to claim additional support. More details will be provided in future newsletters. Please note that pensioners who have previously claimed Household Support Fund payment since December 2024, where possible the Council will reuse previous payment details provided so an application may not be required.
Additional support and advice is available for anyone who is struggling to pay their bills, requires debt advice or who’s health has been affected by the rising cost of living.
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Latest news on the government’s Household Support Fund

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The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items. The new round provides funding until 31 March 2026.

Cheshire West and Chester have chosen to spend the money in the following ways:

food vouchers for families with children who get free school meals

payments to Pensioners who receive Pension Credit

payments to Pensioners on a low income who are not receiving Pension Credit and therefore no longer qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment support

making financial support available to people via local charitableContinue reading
The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items. The new round provides funding until 31 March 2026.

Cheshire West and Chester have chosen to spend the money in the following ways:

food vouchers for families with children who get free school meals

payments to Pensioners who receive Pension Credit

payments to Pensioners on a low income who are not receiving Pension Credit and therefore no longer qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment support

making financial support available to people via local charitable organisations

helping low-income households with energy and food costs

income maximisation software to support residents to claim all of their eligible entitlements.

The new round of discretionary funding for 2025/26 will open by 16 May 2025 for applications and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people. The discretionary scheme is only open to households which have an active claim for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction.

More information including how to apply can be found using the link below.
https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/benefits-and-welfare-help/cost-of-living/household-support-fund/energy-and-food-cost-support
During June, we will be contacting eligible Pension Credit customers directly to advise how to claim the support.
In the Autumn, we will be directly contacting eligible low-income pensioners who are not receiving Pension Credit, to advise how to claim the support. More details will be provided in future newsletters.
Additional support and advice is available for anyone who is struggling to pay their bills, requires debt advice or who’s health has been affected by the rising cost of living.
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Are you eligible for Pension Credit?

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If you’re over state pension age or you know someone aged 66 or over, you may be able to claim pension credit and also likely qualify for the warm home allowance.
Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £227.10 a week for single pensioners or £346.60 for couples.
It is a tax-free payment for those who:

have reached Pension Credit qualifying age, which is State Pension age, and

live in Great Britain.

Someone may still get Pension Credit if they:

have not paid National Insurance contributions

have some savings or a small pension

live withContinue reading
If you’re over state pension age or you know someone aged 66 or over, you may be able to claim pension credit and also likely qualify for the warm home allowance.
Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £227.10 a week for single pensioners or £346.60 for couples.
It is a tax-free payment for those who:

have reached Pension Credit qualifying age, which is State Pension age, and

live in Great Britain.

Someone may still get Pension Credit if they:

have not paid National Insurance contributions

have some savings or a small pension

live with their grown-up family

own their own home.

You can use the Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit you could get – without giving any personal details.
This video from the Department for Work and Pensions shows you how to use the Pension Credit eligibility calculator.
How to use the Pension Credit Eligibility Calculator - YouTube
Benefits calculator

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Are you missing out on benefits that you are entitled to? Try out the Council’s benefits calculator which can tell you if you’re potentially entitled to claim extra money. There are more than 80 different welfare benefits available to support people in different circumstances and situations.

Before using the calculator, you’ll need accurate information about your:

savings

income, including your partner’s (from payslips, for example)

existing benefits and pensions (including anyone living with you)

outgoings (such as rent, mortgage, childcare payments)

Council Tax bill.

By answering a few simple questions, you will quickly find out if you’re eligible for anyContinue reading
Are you missing out on benefits that you are entitled to? Try out the Council’s benefits calculator which can tell you if you’re potentially entitled to claim extra money. There are more than 80 different welfare benefits available to support people in different circumstances and situations.

Before using the calculator, you’ll need accurate information about your:

savings

income, including your partner’s (from payslips, for example)

existing benefits and pensions (including anyone living with you)

outgoings (such as rent, mortgage, childcare payments)

Council Tax bill.

By answering a few simple questions, you will quickly find out if you’re eligible for any benefits. Your answers are provided anonymously.

The calculator also provides useful information in relation to your answers e.g. if you say you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, you will be asked who your supplier is. The calculator will then provide you with information relevant to that supplier so that you’re able to consider social tariffs that are available. Social tariffs are designed to help low-income households pay for their energy bills.
Benefits calculator
Latest news on the government’s Household Support Fund

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The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items.
The current round of funding is open until 31 March 2025 and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people.

Those eligible for support as pensioners and carers will be contacted directly by letter to advise how to claim the support with all letters now issued. If you do not fall into one of theseContinue reading
The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items.
The current round of funding is open until 31 March 2025 and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people.

Those eligible for support as pensioners and carers will be contacted directly by letter to advise how to claim the support with all letters now issued. If you do not fall into one of these categories and haven’t already received support through the Household Support Fund since October 2024, we are now accepting further applications for remaining funding from our discretionary scheme.

The discretionary scheme is available for a payment of £100 per household but is only open to households which have an active claim for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction. Please read our website for more information on how to apply and the information you will need.
https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/benefits-and-welfare-help/cost-of-living/household-support-fund/energy-and-food-cost-support

Additional support and advice is available for anyone who is struggling to pay their bills, requires debt advice or who’s health has been affected by the rising cost of living.
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Support for new parents

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Child Benefit
Did you know you can claim your Child Benefit online or via the HMRC app? More than one million parents have claimed in this way since the new digital service was launched earlier this year.
Child Benefit is worth £1,331 a year for the first child and £881 a year for each additional child. It can be claimed just 48 hours after registering a baby’s birth and parents typically receive their first payment within three working days. Claims can be backdated by up to 12 weeks, so the sooner families claim, the better. Child Benefit is typically paidContinue reading
Child Benefit
Did you know you can claim your Child Benefit online or via the HMRC app? More than one million parents have claimed in this way since the new digital service was launched earlier this year.
Child Benefit is worth £1,331 a year for the first child and £881 a year for each additional child. It can be claimed just 48 hours after registering a baby’s birth and parents typically receive their first payment within three working days. Claims can be backdated by up to 12 weeks, so the sooner families claim, the better. Child Benefit is typically paid every four weeks.
Downloading the free HMRC app makes managing claims even easier too. Families can use the app to track payments and update their details on the go – from changing their address or bank details, to seeing when their next payment is landing.
To make a claim online, visit: Child Benefit: Make a claim - GOV.UK or via the HMRC app, visit: Download the HMRC app - GOV.UK
Healthy Start supports families in need
If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.
If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. Your benefit will be added onto your card every four weeks.
You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow’s milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow’s milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children – these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

To find out about applying for Healthy Start, visit: Applying for Healthy Start – Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
or how you can use Healthy Start, visit Using Healthy Start – Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
West Cheshire Credit Union

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Are you looking to get on track with your finances in 2025? With the cost-of-living crisis in full effect, now more than ever it is important to have a little something to fall back on. We encourage savings of £1 a week to help with an unexpected bill that may occur or to start saving little and often.
The Peoples’ Community Bank
Did you know saving with your credit union helps your community? The more money saved with the credit union means that we can help more people who may need to borrow money to get them through difficult timesContinue reading
Are you looking to get on track with your finances in 2025? With the cost-of-living crisis in full effect, now more than ever it is important to have a little something to fall back on. We encourage savings of £1 a week to help with an unexpected bill that may occur or to start saving little and often.
The Peoples’ Community Bank
Did you know saving with your credit union helps your community? The more money saved with the credit union means that we can help more people who may need to borrow money to get them through difficult times. All money saved with the credit union is protected and you have access to your money at any time.
What is a credit union?
A credit union is a financial co-operative which provides savings, loans and a range of services to its members. A credit union is owned and controlled by the members. Credit unions are not-for-profit organisations, and any surplus generated at the financial year end is put back into the running costs of the credit union or paid as a dividend to its members. As we are not owned by external shareholders the emphasis is always on providing the best service to our members and not maximising profits. The credit union is accessible to those within our common bond. A common bond is the area each credit union serves and their criteria. West Cheshire Credit Union’s common bond is for those who live, work or study within Cheshire West, Cheshire East and Flintshire. If you fall within this, you can apply and become a member.
Credit union myths and facts
There are many ‘myths’ surrounding credit unions, here are some of the examples and correct facts:
• Credit Unions are only accessible for those claiming benefits – this is incorrect, credit unions are for everyone of all walks of life.
• We are regulated and a safe secure way to save and borrow.
• Owned by members, and members are encouraged to give feedback.
• Directors are all volunteers, and do not take any renumeration.
• Savings stay within the local community and is managed to provide accessibility to affordable loans.
We have a range of saving products available these are:

Saver Account – our standard account

Junior Savers Account – pays a competitive 5% interest

Payroll Scheme – saving direct from your salary

If you are interested in saving with us, please get in touch, you can become a member of West Cheshire Credit Union by completing our online form or alternatively you can call into one of our branches and speak to someone face to face.
https://wccu.co.uk/
Head Office – 12-16 Brookdale Place, Chester, CH1 3DY (opposite the bus station).
Ellesmere Port - The Portal, Wellington Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BA. (Thursdays only).
Government’s Household Support Fund extended to 31 March 2025

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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 willContinue reading
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
Are you eligible for Council Tax reduction

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It’s important to know that you can apply if you are working, or unemployed.
You can apply for council tax support if you:

live at the property

pay council tax

have a low income, or are entitled to a benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions or the Pension Service

have capital of less than £6000, if you are working age; or £16,000 for working age protected group applicants and pension age.

if you are of Pension Credit age.

Further details on the maximum amount we can pay or how we calculate what you’re entitled to, can beContinue reading
It’s important to know that you can apply if you are working, or unemployed.
You can apply for council tax support if you:

live at the property

pay council tax

have a low income, or are entitled to a benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions or the Pension Service

have capital of less than £6000, if you are working age; or £16,000 for working age protected group applicants and pension age.

if you are of Pension Credit age.

Further details on the maximum amount we can pay or how we calculate what you’re entitled to, can be found on our website.

How Council Tax is worked out

Have your say on proposed changes to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme
The consultation relates to the scheme for working age claimants which is set by the Council. Pension age claimants are not affected by the proposed changes as that scheme continues to be set by central government.
To find out more and to take part, visit: Council Tax Reduction Scheme Consultation | Cheshire West and Chester Council
The closing date for responses to the consultation is Thursday, 31 October.
Latest news on the government’s Household Support Fund

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As you may be aware, the government recently announced that they will be extending the Household Support Fund (HSF) for a further six months – from 1 April to 30 September 2024. Details of how the funding will be allocated will be available on the Council's website in the coming weeks.

The Household Support Fund is there to support people living in low-income households who are struggling to afford their energy and water bills, food, and other essential items. To find out if you’re eligible for support, visit:
Household support fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Easter food vouchers
Continue reading
As you may be aware, the government recently announced that they will be extending the Household Support Fund (HSF) for a further six months – from 1 April to 30 September 2024. Details of how the funding will be allocated will be available on the Council's website in the coming weeks.

The Household Support Fund is there to support people living in low-income households who are struggling to afford their energy and water bills, food, and other essential items. To find out if you’re eligible for support, visit:
Household support fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Easter food vouchers
Out of the remaining budget available from this year’s round of HSF (up to 31 March 2024) food vouchers will be provided for families with children in receipt of free school meals, for the Easter holiday period. Each eligible pupil will receive £10 per week. Schools will issue the vouchers to families in advance of the Easter holiday.