Cost Of Living 2025: Thousands of UK families struggling with rising food and energy costs may still qualify for cost of living payments worth up to £600 through the government-backed Household Support Fund. Parents are being urged to check with their local council to see if they are eligible for these one-off grants, which do not need to be repaid.
Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and distributed by local councils, the Household Support Fund is designed to help low-income households and individuals hit hardest by the cost of living crisis. Support is available in the form of cash payments, food vouchers, energy bill assistance, and more — with some councils offering up to £600 to families with two or more children.
Who Can Claim the £600 Cost of Living Grant?
Eligibility criteria and payment amounts vary depending on your local authority. For example, the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames is currently offering:
- £300 for households with one or more adults
- £500 for households with one dependent child
- £600 for households with two or more dependent children
To qualify in Richmond, applicants must:
- Be aged 18 or older
- Reside in the borough
- Be facing financial hardship due to energy costs, food bills, or ongoing COVID-19 impacts
- Be experiencing issues such as benefit delays, job loss, or health problems
The council is also prioritising families where children’s welfare is at risk, or where residents have community care needs or serious health concerns.
Residents in Richmond can apply by calling Citizens Advice Richmond at 08082 787873 (Freephone).
Support Available Across Other UK Councils
Other local councils are also offering targeted help through their own versions of the Household Support Fund. Here’s a quick look at what’s on offer across parts of the UK:
Doncaster Council
- £100 for households with one dependent child
- £200 for households with two dependent children
- £300 for households with three or more children
- Additional one-off energy bill payment if eligible
To qualify, families must be receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, or free school meals.
Hull City Council
- £200 payments for pensioner households
- £40 school uniform grant for low-income families
- Holiday food vouchers for children receiving free school meals
Hartlepool Borough Council
- £100 food vouchers for families with school-age children (aged 2–19) eligible for free school meals
- £100 in payments or vouchers for pensioners on Council Tax Support
Each council has its own application process, deadlines, and qualifying conditions — so families are advised to contact their local authority directly or visit their council website for up-to-date information.
Why This Support Matters Now
The latest round of Household Support Fund payments comes as many families across the UK continue to grapple with high energy bills, rising grocery prices, and reduced income. For families with multiple children, these grants could provide much-needed relief heading into summer.
Many of the payments are available as one-off awards, and funds are typically limited — meaning those who are eligible should act quickly to avoid missing out.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
- Visit your local council’s website and search for “Household Support Fund”
- Check your eligibility criteria, especially if you receive benefits or have dependent children
- Submit your application before the deadline, including proof of income or benefits if required
- Contact local support services like Citizens Advice if you need help with the application
If you’re a UK family with two or more children and struggling with the cost of living, you could still qualify for up to £600 in government-backed support. With funding managed by local councils and available for a limited time, now is the time to check your eligibility and apply.