Household Support Fund
The household support fund has been provided by the Department for Work and Pensions to support those most in need in the Borough of Swindon.
It can help households with the cost of food, energy and wider essentials and covers the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024.
Some of this funding is allocated directly to eligible households while some will be distributed to local partners to help people using their services.
Examples of what the funding in Swindon is being used for are:
- food vouchers for eligible families during school holidays
- vouchers to households identified by DWP as not receiving the Government cost of living support payments
- funding for local organisations to help residents with food and energy bill support
You do not need to apply to the council for much of this support as you are either automatically identified or will access the support through specific partners.
If you have not received support through these routes, there may be help available through our Application Fund.
Application Fund
If you receive any of the following benefits, you will not be able to apply to our Application Fund at this time.
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
This is because you will receive three Cost of Living support payments of £301, £300 and £299 direct from Government to help you in 2023/24. £301 was paid in April/May 2023, £300 was paid in November 2023, and the final £299 will be paid by Spring 2024.
If you receive this support but are still struggling, you may be able to apply to the Emergency Assistance Fund for help instead.
How do I qualify for the Household Support Fund?
If you have experienced an unexpected expense which affects your ability to meet the cost of energy, food or other essential bills, or are struggling to afford to heat your home, you may be eligible for assistance through our Application Fund.
If your application is accepted, you will receive a one-off payment for the period up to 31 March 2024.
If you have any difficulty completing this application online, contact our Customer Services team on 01793 445500, and they will be able to assist you in completing the form.
Please note: This is not an emergency response fund. Applications will take some time to consider. If you are struggling to afford enough food, call Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7813 between 10.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday to discuss options based on your circumstances. This could include a referral to the food bank in Swindon.
If you are in crisis and in need of food, heat or other essential items, and you do not receive assistance under the Household Support Fund, you should consider applying for our Emergency Assistance Fund if you are eligible under the criteria shown.
There is further advice if you are struggling with the cost of living on our help with living costs page.
The Government Cost of Living Hub also has a lot of useful information on help with your energy bills.