Financial support is available to eligible households to help cover the costs of food and energy bills this winter.
Westmorland and Furness Council continues to help ease some of the financial worries for residents who are struggling to make ends meet, thanks to phase six of the Government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) which runs until 31 March 2025. The funding is issued on a first come first served basis and will be available until this date, or when funding has been allocated, whichever occurs first.
The council still has funding available from this latest round of Government funding and is encouraging those who might be eligible to get in touch with their Household Support Fund Team. The fund is there to help residents who are struggling with the costs of energy and water bills, food and other household essentials.
The offer comprises of a voucher that can be taken to any post office to be redeemed for cash to pay for household essentials. Applicants can redeem their vouchers by text message, email or by letter.
The quickest way for households to apply is online through the council’s website, or they can call the Household Support Fund Team on 0300 373 3300.
Households that have already received funding and are still struggling with the cost of living are also encouraged to get in touch as the council may be able to offer additional financial support with food and other household essentials. They also work closely with other internal services, charities and third-party organisations who will be able to offer non-financial support.
Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, said:
“We know some households continue to struggle to pay food and energy bills this winter and as such these pressures are very real for many local families. That’s why we’re encouraging any households who are facing crisis to get in touch with the council either by applying online or giving our friendly team a call. We currently still have funding available from this latest phase of funding and can signpost you to other non-financial support. Don’t struggle alone, we’re here to help.”
For details of other help and support available from the council and partners, please visit the council's dedicated cost of living webpage.