Are you struggling to pay for food and other essentials?

For those on a low income and facing financial hardship, you can apply online for one-off support to pay for food and prepay gas and electricity. If your application is successful, you will receive an e-voucher that you can convert into a gift card to spend at a supermarket or on prepayment gas and electricity.

When you apply you will be asked to provide evidence of your circumstances and personal details so that we can thoroughly check each claim and ensure the money goes to those most in need. 

We can offer help to complete the self-referral form (for example, if you don’t have online access or need language support). Simply call us on 023 9401 6642 (9am to 2pm, Monday to Friday).

Your Social Worker, Welfare Officer or caseworker supporting you or your household may be able to make a referral on your behalf to HSF. This could be to buy food, prepay gas and electricity, essential kitchen equipment and other essentials like warm clothing and bedding.

Even if you’re not eligible to receive help from the Household Support Fund, there is a wide range of advice and support to city residents during this difficult time:

Help with household bills

• If you are on a benefits or have a low-income you may be able to get help with your council tax and rent
• Visit the Government’s website for help heating your home, including information on a discount to reduce your electricity bill for winter, cold weather payments and winter fuel payments
• British Gas Energy Trust provides grants for customers in utility bill arrears, irrespective of energy company
• WaterSure allows you to have your water bills capped if you are on certain benefits
• Southern Water provides support if you are struggling with water bills

Help with other costs

• Healthy Start Vouchers can be claimed if you receive certain benefits and are pregnant or have a child under the age of four
• Free School Meals are available if you meet the income criteria and have a school-aged child