Families raising children with SEND are often hit hardest by the cost-of-living crisis. But did you know you may be entitled to extra support worth up to £500 in food vouchers, clothing, energy costs, or even rent payments — through the Household Support Fund?
If your child has additional needs, you’re on a low income or Universal Credit, or you’re struggling to make ends meet, here’s what you need to know.
🏡 What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government fund distributed by local councils in England. It’s designed to help people who are struggling with essential costs like:
- 🛒 Food
- 🔌 Energy bills
- 🧥 Clothing
- 🏠 Rent or household essentials
Every council decides how to use the fund in their area, and the eligibility rules and what they offer can vary.
✅ Who Can Apply?
Most councils focus on helping:
- Low-income families (including those on Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, or Carer’s Allowance)
- Parents of children with SEND or EHCPs
- Those struggling with rising energy or food costs
- People at risk of homelessness
- Carers and vulnerable adults
Even if you’ve been refused other help before, you may still qualify for this.
📝 How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Find your local council’s scheme
- Go to: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
- Enter your postcode and visit your local council’s website.
- Search for “Household Support Fund” or “Cost of Living Help”.
- Check eligibility and available support
- Some councils offer food vouchers.
- Others offer energy top-ups, help with school uniforms, or emergency rent payments.
- Complete the online application
- Have ready:
- Your National Insurance number
- Proof of benefits or income
- Child’s DLA or EHCP status (if applicable)
- Recent utility bills or rent statements
- Have ready:
- Include a short explanation
- Explain how your child’s needs affect your costs.
- Be honest and clear: mention things like needing to stay home for care, extra laundry, heating, or food needs.
- Wait for confirmation
- Councils usually reply within 7–21 days.
- Support may come as vouchers, a payment to your bank, or energy top-ups.
🔄 Can I Apply More Than Once?
Yes, in many areas you can reapply every few months if your situation is still difficult. Always check your local council’s rules.
📌 Tips from Other Parents
- Mention if your child is home educated due to SEND or is on reduced hours.
- If you’re not in receipt of PIP/DLA, still apply — many councils accept low income as enough.
- Keep a copy of any letters or emails – especially if they confirm refusal or delay.
💬 Need Help Writing What to Say?
Use AskEllie+ to draft your support explanation. It’s a free AI assistant trained on UK SEND law and parent experiences — you can even upload your documents and get help step-by-step.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Every council runs the Household Support Fund differently, and eligibility criteria may change. We recommend checking directly with your local council for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
🧠 Quick Summary
| ✅ You Could Get | 🗓 How Often | 💡 How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| £100–£500 in help with food, energy, rent, or clothing | Some allow every 3–6 months | Via your local council’s Household Support Fund page |
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