Could your local council help with household costs? | Tenant news

The cost of everyday essentials can put a real strain on your household budget, and most of us could do with a helping hand now and then.

The good news is that if you’re finding it harder to make ends meet, your local council might be able to help. Many councils offer help to people on low incomes or facing unexpected costs, so it’s worth checking what you could be eligible for.

Funds and grants

The Crisis and Resilience Fund is government funding given to councils in England to help people who are struggling financially. It can provide help with urgent costs, such as food and energy bills, as well as help with housing costs and managing money in the longer term.

Help may come as a cash payment or vouchers, depending on your council’s scheme. Some councils also work with local charities and community groups. You don’t have to receive benefits to qualify, but each council has its own eligibility criteria and application process.

You may also be able to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment if you receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit and need extra help with your rent. 

Check your local council’s website to find out what help is available and how to apply. You can find your council’s website at www.gov.uk/find-local-council.

Check your benefits

You may be entitled to benefits you’re not currently claiming, which could help towards your rent and other household expenses. It’s also worth checking that the benefits you already receive reflect your current circumstances.

The Turn2us Benefits Calculator can help you check what financial support you might be entitled to. If you receive Universal Credit, check that your housing costs have been reported correctly and that any eligible service charges have been included.

Disability Rights UK also offers free benefits checks to help you find out what financial support you could receive. This service is available to all Habinteg tenants, not just disabled people. Call Habinteg on 0300 365 3100 and select option 5 to find out more.

You can also contact your council’s welfare team or Habinteg’s Rent Assist team for advice about benefits and financial support.

Council Tax and water bills

If you’re on a low income, you may be able to get help with your council tax bill by applying for a Council Tax reduction. This could lower your bill or, in some cases, cover it altogether.

Check your local council’s website to see if you can get a reduction and how to apply. If you already get a reduction, remember to tell your council if your income or household situation changes, as this could affect how much you get.

There may be other ways to reduce your regular household expenses. If you’re struggling with your water bill, contact your water supplier to ask about payment plans or schemes that could lower your bill. The Consumer Council for Water  also provides information about help with water bills.

Get help with debt

If you’re worried about keeping up with rent, bills or other payments, free debt advice is available. Organisations such as StepChange and National Debtline can help you understand your options and work out a way forward.

It’s worth seeking advice as early as possible if you’re falling behind with payments. If you’re worried about your rent, contact Habinteg so we can discuss your situation and explain what help may be available.

Find more advice

You can check what other help is available in your area by searching online for your council’s name alongside terms such as ‘household support’, ‘cost of living help’ or ‘financial assistance’.

For more advice about help with bills, housing and other essential costs, visit the government’s cost of living support page .

You can also visit Habinteg’s Cost of Living support hub for information about help with household expenses and finding financial support.

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