Cost of living payments worth up to £300 being paid to households this month
Cost of living payments worth up to £300 being paid to households this month
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Pensioner households are set to get a cost of living payment worth up to £300 this month through this government scheme. The extra support comes from the Household Support Fund scheme. This government-funded initiative gives local councils pots of cash to spend on cost of living support for people struggling in their areas. Each council decides exactly how it spends its funding, with some councils offering free cost-of-living payments, supermarket vouchers, or discounts on energy bills.
St Helens Borough Council is providing various community support. This month, the local authority is paying either £200 or £300 to pension-age households in the area who are claiming Housing Benefit or a Council Tax reduction. Households over the age of 80 will receive the £300 payment. The council says the support payment is being given to households that are not claiming Pension Credit and, therefore, are not eligible for this year's Winter Fuel Payment.
Eligible households started to receive the couchers in late December, and they will continue to be sent throughout January. The voucher can then be cashed in at any Post Office branch. St Helens Council is also providing support to households who are struggling to afford energy, food and water bills. To get help, you will need to make an application through the council's website. You will also need to provide evidence that you are on a low income and that you are struggling to pay your bills. This evidence can include bank statements, utility bills, and energy credit statements. If you are unable to apply online, you can call the council's cost of living service on 01744676789.
