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.

Crisis and Resilience Fund

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.

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.

Council Tax reduction

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.

Other ways to get help

You may be entitled to benefits you’re not currently claiming, which could help towards your household expenses.

Disability Rights UK offers free benefits checks to help you find out what financial support you could receive. This offer is available to all Habinteg tenants, you don’t have to be a disabled person to use the service. Call Habinteg on 0300 365 3100 and select option 5 to find out more.

You can also 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. 

************

Have you signed up to the tenant portal, My Habinteg, yet? It’s quick and easy, and gives you access to a full breakdown of your service charges. Sign up now. And, if you'd like to receive the digital version of tenant newsletter Update, instead of the print version, please email comms@habinteg.org.uk and ask to be added to the mailing list.