As inflation continues to rise in the UK, everyday expenses like food, rent, childcare, and energy bills are stretching household budgets.
To help people facing this financial strain, the British government has rolled out the Household Support Fund. Starting in July 2025, eligible families may receive up to £300 in direct financial support to help cover essential needs.
Funded by the central government and distributed by local councils, this scheme is designed to reach people quickly and effectively.
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Objective
The Household Support Fund is aimed at supporting families who are struggling to cover basic living costs, such as food, heating, electricity, and childcare. While the funding is national, local councils are in charge of distribution and deciding who gets what.
That means the application process, eligibility rules, and amount of help can vary depending on where you live.
In some areas, payments are made automatically to people already receiving certain benefits. In others, a separate application is required. This flexible approach helps tailor the support to local needs.
Doncaster
Doncaster Council is offering the following breakdown of support:
| Family Type | Support Amount |
|---|---|
| Family with 1 child | £100 |
| Family with 2 children | £200 |
| Family with 3 or more children | £300 |
To qualify, families must be receiving Child Benefit. Additional help of up to £100 is available for households receiving Universal Credit (including the housing element), Housing Benefit, Free School Meals, or Council Tax Reduction. If you have already received a previous payment and your situation has not changed, the money will be paid automatically to the same account.
Anyone who has switched bank accounts should update their information with the council to avoid delays. Those who previously received cheques will continue to receive them the same way until they provide bank details.
Dates
Doncaster Council will begin issuing food support payments around 15 July 2025. Support for energy bills will be rolled out by 15 December 2025. If you apply after mid-July, your payment timeline may be different and will be communicated by your local authority.
Payments are mostly being sent via direct deposit for faster delivery. If your situation remains unchanged, you will not need to apply again.
Areas
Other councils have slightly different guidelines. Here are some examples:
- Calderdale Council offers up to £85 for families with three or more children. Single individuals or couples without children or disabilities may receive £40. No benefits eligibility is required.
- Manchester City Council provides a one-time payment of £130 for households receiving Council Tax Support or disability benefits like PIP or DLA. This is a one-off payment available until March 2026.
Because every council sets its own rules, it is important to visit your local council’s website for exact details.
Need
The government has clarified that this fund is not limited to those already receiving public benefits. Anyone who is struggling financially due to rising costs can contact their local council for help. This makes the scheme accessible to a wider group of people.
If you are already receiving other support, claiming this payment will not reduce your existing benefits.
Apply
Some councils will pay automatically, but others will require an application. When applying, you will typically need to provide:
- Proof of ID (such as a passport or driving licence)
- Child Benefit or Universal Credit statement
- Bank account details and a recent bank statement
- Recent energy bill or rent statement
- Any documents from other support schemes you are enrolled in
Visit your local council’s website for the full application process and deadlines.
The £300 Cost of Living Payment under the Household Support Fund is more than just financial aid. It is a message that help is available. For families, the elderly, or anyone going through tough times, this fund could be the difference between getting by and going without.
With payments arriving in mid-July 2025, now is the time to check your eligibility and make sure your documents and details are up to date. Whether it is a small payment or a larger one, this support could offer much-needed breathing room and help restore a sense of stability and hope.
FAQs
When will the £300 payment be made?
Payments start mid-July 2025, around July 15.
Who qualifies for the £300 payment?
Families with 3+ children receiving Child Benefit in Doncaster.
Is this payment automatic?
Yes, if your situation hasn’t changed since the last support.
Will this affect other benefits?
No, it won’t reduce or cancel other government benefits.
Do all councils offer £300?
No, the amount varies by local council and household size.
