More funding for Household Support scheme – but when it’s gone, it’s gone.
Croydon Council has been allocated a further £6 million by the Government for Hardship Support Fund grants to people in crisis. These are available to qualifying Croydon residents now.
If you meet the low-income and other eligibility criteria you should apply as soon as possible, as the scheme will end once the money runs out.
Applications will be considered for:
- Top-ups for pre-paid energy and water meters.
- Assistance with energy and water bills debts.
- Food vouchers.
- Essential items relating to energy or water – eg, clothing, bedding, heater, appliances.
- Essential items relating to food – eg, slow cooker, microwave, cooker, fridge.
- Items related to essential transport – eg, travel ticket, bicycle & helmet.
- Other essential household items – eg, furniture, minor adaptions, draft excluders.
- Housing support (in exceptional circumstances, excluding mortgage payment).
Application turnaround time will be typically one to two weeks, but in urgent cases one to three working days.
Priority will be given to first-time applicants not eligible for other types of help; one appliance only per application.
Caroline Beech, the Council’s Discretionary Support Manager, said: “It is important that the Household Support Fund reaches those most in need. Residents can apply via our website at croydon.gov.uk/benefits/household-support-fund-hsf or they can call us on 020 8760 5719 and applications can be taken over the phone.”
Julia Lee, who heads up our team of Client Support Volunteers, said: “This is very good news. There is a broader range of support than previously and taking applications by phone should make it easier to apply.”